LAKES BIOSECURITY PRIORITY AREA
We’ve teamed up with West Cumbria and Eden Rivers Trusts to develop the Lakes Biosecurity Priority Area project.
Funded by the UK Government, this development project will allow us to engage lake users in Cumbria about invasive non-native species and biosecurity. We will carry out a feasibility study to look at the best areas around our lakes for permanent washdown stations and signage. Alongside this, we will also develop a five year invasive species strategy to stop the spread of invasive species and look to implement the findings of the feasibility study with areas becoming LAKES BIOSECURITY PRIORITY AREAS.
What are invasives?
Invasive non-native species (INNS) are plants and animals that have been introduced to areas where they don’t naturally occur. They can have significant impacts on local species, biodiversity and the environment. Prevention is key. Once established in an area, most often that not it cannot be undone. That’s why it is so important to talk to people about invasives because without realising it, you could be spreading them without knowing it.
You will find us out and about around the lakes of South Cumbria over the Summer, at various events, to understand your views and gather important feedback about what would help you when carrying out biosecurity. Biosecurity refers to measures taken to protect against the introduction and spread of harmful pests and invasives, like washing down your kit, scrubbing your equipment etc.
Don’t pack a pest – CHECK, CLEAN, DRY
Don’t forget to always to Check, Clean and Dry your equipment, including boats, paddleboards, swimming costumes, wellies and fishing gear, so invasives species don’t spread to different areas. Preferably using clean water, away from any watercourse and make sure it’s nice and dry for use next time.
Events
You’ll find us at Chill Swim Coniston, Lakeside Boat Race and RoWindermere to name a few so come along and talk to us and have your say. You might even have an opportunity to enter our prize draw.
