Biosecurity - Invasive Species Control
Biosecurity is the actions carried out to minimise the risk of invasive species. A non-native species is any wild species that has become established outside of their normal habitat. Some non-native species are completely harmless but others, known as alien or invasive species, have the ability to cause damage to the environment. Biosecurity is essential to minimise the risks associated with invasive species in order to protect our waters and native wildlife.
As a sailing club, we have a responsibility to ensure our activities do not result in the spread of invasive species to Grassholme.
Remember:
- CHECK
- CLEAN
- DRY
Check boats, equipment and clothing after leaving the water for mud, aquatic animals or plant material. Remove anything you find and leave it at the site.
Clean everything throughly as soon as you can. Pay attention to ropes, trailers, and areas that are damp and hard to access.
Dry - drain water from every part of your boat and trailer before leaving the site. Dry everything for as long as possible before using elsewhere. Some invasive plants and animals can survive for two weeks in damp conditions.
When moving your dinghy, paddleboard or kayak to/from Grassholme, please follow the CHECK - CLEAN - DRY procedure.
For further information, see the RYA Green Blue Campaign:
https://thegreenblue.org.uk/boating-pledge/
