Check your boat’s clean before you set sail
Boaties getting ready to head out this Labour Weekend or over summer are encouraged to make sure they're not carrying marine pests with them when they set sail.
Mediterranean fanworm (also known as Sabella) is an introduced pest, prevalent in northern New Zealand and in Lyttelton. It forms dense populations that can crowd out native marine life and potentially affect marine farming. There are native fanworms seen in Marlborough waters, but these are not invasive like Sabella.
Senior Biosecurity Officer, Liam Falconer says the Council works closely with partners through the Top of the South Marine Biosecurity Partnership to highlight the threat of marine pests. Council is also actively implementing a programme of surveillance and response aimed at preventing the establishment of Mediterranean fanworm.
It's important boaties continue to work with us to prevent Sabella incursions into Marlborough waters. The majority of incursions we've detected have come from the upper North Island on recreational vessels. Boaties visiting these areas need to ensure their vessel has been cleaned before they head south, so they don't bring marine pests back to Marlborough.
Both the Ministry for Primary Industries and Council encourage the owners of moored boats to regularly haul and clean their hulls and keep their antifouling paint in good, effective condition.
Marine pests can threaten the very things boaties value - clear waters, pristine beaches and an abundance of marine life, including kai moana. A heavily fouled hull can also cause long-term damage to boat hulls, and increase fuel and maintenance costs, Mr Falconer said.
For more information visit the Marine Biosecurity page on this website
Disclaimer
The information in this media statement was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.