Biosecurity checks ramp up for holiday season

Biosecurity checks targeting the invasive freshwater clam have been stepped up at Kai Iwi’s Lake Taharoa for the busy holiday period.

Biosecurity checkpoints will operate daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm until end of summer, helping protect Northland’s waterways from harmful freshwater pests.

Northland Regional Council’s Kaipara constituency representative John Blackwell says the council is working in partnership with local iwi Te Roroa and Te Kuihi who will provide ambassadors to staff the checkpoints.

“We’ve also boosted our capability for summer with eight new warranted officers under the Biosecurity Act, and all personnel have completed specialist training to ensure effective checks.”

Councillor Blackwell says to prevent the spread of the invasive freshwater clam and other aquatic pests, all water users visiting Lake Taharoa must complete a self-certification before entering the lake.

“This is especially important if you’re bringing equipment from outside the region.”

He says self-certification is quick and easy: simply complete a short survey confirming you’ve followed the Check, Clean, Dry protocol to ensure your watercraft and gear are pest-free. Visit www.nrc.govt.nz/selfcertify

“We encourage everyone to carry out ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ when moving between waterways, ideally as soon as you leave the previous freshwater environment and at least 48 hours before arriving at the next waterway.”

Councillor Blackwell says while Kai Iwi Lakes remains a top priority as one of Northland’s unique dune lake systems, ambassadors will also be out and about across the region this summer.

“Look for them at events such as waka ama competitions, multisport events, A&P shows, and Waitangi Day celebrations, where they’ll be promoting the Check, Clean, Dry message.”

People wanting to learn more about freshwater invasive clam can visit: www.nrc.govt.nz/invasiveclam