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Check, Clean, Dry
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Do you know your hornwort from your lagarosiphon?
As well as managing pest plants and animals across the region, ORC’s Biosecurity team work hard to prevent freshwater aquatic pests from entering and spreading throughout Otago's waterways.
Stopping pests before they spread is the best way to protect our waters because removing them later is hard and expensive. Just like you clean your boat and gear to keep them in good shape, cleaning for biosecurity helps protect the oceans we all love.
One of the ways the team do this is through an educational programme called Check Clean Dry.
Every Summer ORC staff will frequent rivers, lakes, swimming holes, and fishing spots throughout Otago, sharing with the public a simple 3-step method to help prevent the spread of aquatic pests.
This summer, if you’re out on the water, on the boat, the kayak, swimming, fishing or jet skiing, take a moment to:
your gear for stowaway pests and remove these either or by putting them in the rubbish bin,
your gear thoroughly, and
it for 48 hours before relocating to another waterway!
Check Clean Dry vastly reduces the risk of aquatic pests hitchhiking from one waterway to another aboard our vessels and gear.
Before you leave any river or lake:
Check for and remove any plant matter from your gear and clothing and leave it at the site (the river or lake bank) or put it in the rubbish. Don’t wash plant material down the drain.
Use 10% dishwashing detergent mixed with water and leave the item wet for 10 minutes.
The rule of thumb for 10% detergent mix is:
- For a 250ml (small) spray bottle, put in 1 and half tablespoons.
- For a 500ml (large) spray bottle, put in 3 tablespoons.
- For a 10-litre bucket, put in 1 litre of detergent.
|
Cleaning option |
Amount |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Dishwashing detergent or nappy cleaner |
10% mix (1 litre to 10 litres of water) |
Soak or spray all surfaces and leave wet for at least 10 minutes |
|
Bleach |
2% mix (200mls to 10 litres of water) |
Soak or spray all surfaces for at least 1 minute |
|
Hot water above 60°C |
Soak entire item |
Soak for at least 1 minute |
|
Hot water above 45°C |
Soak entire item |
Soak for at least 20 minutes |
|
Freezing |
|
Until solid |
Note: 60°C is hotter than most tap water; 45°C is uncomfortable to touch. Allow longer times for absorbent items.
Ensure your gear is completely dry to touch, inside and out, then leave dry for at least another 48 hours before you use it. This is an important step as Didymo can survive for months on moist gear.
Watch the video below to learn how to Check, Clean, Dry a boat as an example of the method.
Check, Clean, Dry on MPI
A wealth of information to help you stop the spread of freshwater pests, including help with specific less common items.
Freshwater pests guide
Read the NIWA freshwater pests guide, aimed at agencies who manage aquatic invaders, as well as anyone who uses our freshwater bodies.
Freshwater pests and diseases
Introduced freshwater species like didymo, koi carp, oxygen weed, and hornwort threaten New Zealand's waterways. Learn about what we're doing to stop the spread of freshwater pests.
Check, Clean, Dry Pocket Guide
Take this pocket guide with you for tips on what the rules are and how to best check, clean, dry your gear - from kayaks to vehicles, backpacks to boats.
Harbourmaster
Our Harbourmaster works to ensure that our waterways are safe for everyone to enjoy. Otago Regional Council are responsible for the regulation of ports, harbours, waters, and maritime-related activities in the Otago region under the Maritime Transport Act (1994).
Freshwater pests
Know your hornwort from your lagarosiphon? ORC’s Biosecurity team actively combats freshwater pests to safeguard our waterways, including initiatives such as the Check, Clean, Dry program. Let’s keep our aquatic ecosystems thriving.
What is pollution?
Pollution can be many things that are harmful in Otago's air, water, land, or coastal areas. The ORC has rules to prevent pollution and protect our environment. If you see pollution, report it quickly to help us investigate and stop the harm.
Protect our Paradise
Do you know what’s lurking beneath your boat? The ORC Biosecurity team works hard to stop harmful pests from spreading in Otago’s coastline and helps people learn how to keep these pests out.
Marine pests
Marine pests are sneaking into Otago’s waters, posing a serious threat to our native species, marine industries, and treasured coastlines. Let’s work together to keep Otago’s waters safe and pest-free!
Summer safety
Enjoy the refreshing waters of Otago’s stunning lakes and rivers - make the most of our summer and have fun. But remember, safety comes first. We've put together some essential safety tips and things to avoid, helping you have a safe and memorable summer.
