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Broads water users urged to ‘Check Clean Dry’
Non-native shrimp found at Barton Broad
All users of the Broads are being asked to ensure they follow ‘Check Clean Dry’ guidance when dealing with equipment which has been in contact with the water, after a few of the invasive non-native shrimp, Dikerogammarus villosus, were found in a small area of Barton Broad.
The Environment Agency, Natural England and the Broads Authority are currently working together to investigate the presence of the shrimp in the Broads, including its current population and spread.
Andrea Kelly Senior Ecologist for the Broads Authority said: ‘The shrimp were found through a dedicated monitoring programme. Fortunately we’ve only found the shrimp in a very localised area in the Broads so far. People checking, cleaning and drying their equipment after use is essential to help stop the spread of all non-native species and we would really appreciate their full cooperation in doing this.
‘We are working with our partners to investigate the shrimps’ current population and range in the Broads and to investigate and implement measures to limit its spread to and from other water courses. There is no risk to the public or their pets from it.’
Dikerogammarus villosus, commonlyknown as ‘killer shrimp’,is an invasive non-native species. If the shrimp became established and widespread, as other invasive species such as floating pennywort and Signal crayfish have, it could threaten populations of native species. Although the shrimp only grows to a maximum of 30mm (11/4 inches) it feeds on insect life including our native species such as damselfly nymphs, water boatmen and small fish.
The Check Clean Dry campaign asks all water users to take simple steps to help prevent the spread of non-native species between rivers, lakes and reservoirs. Clothing and equipment that has come in contact with the water should be checked for any living organisms and then thoroughly washed-down. Any organisms found should be returned to the water body they came from. Equipment and clothing should be dried as some species can survive for days in damp conditions.
ENDS
Media enquiries:
Broads Authority: Clare Weller 07818 064737
Natural England: Emma Lusby 0300 060 4231
Environment Agency: Catherine Burbage 01733 464357
Notes for editors
Link to more information on Check Clean Dry campaign:
Check, Clean, Dry ... - GB non-native species secretariat
Specific advice on biosecurity for watercraft users can be found at:
About the Broads and the Broads Authority
The Norfolk and Suffolk Broads have the same status as a national park, are an internationally important wetland with six main rivers and 63 broads and more than 200 km of navigable waterways. 25% of the Broads has an international designation for its biodiversity. There are 9 National Nature Reserves and 28 Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Over 7 million people visit each year bringing in more than £400 million to the local economy. There are over 12,000 boats registered and it is an important fishery.
The Broads Authority was established in 1989 with very similar responsibilities to those of the English National Park Authorities: conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Broads, promoting opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Broads by the public; and protecting the interests of navigation.
About Natural England
Natural England is the government’s advisor on the natural environment. We provide practical advice, grounded in science, on how best to safeguard England’s natural wealth for the benefit of everyone. Our remit is to ensure sustainable stewardship of the land and sea so that people and nature can thrive. It is our responsibility to see that England’s rich natural environment can adapt and survive intact for future generations to enjoy. We work with farmers and land managers; business and industry; planners and developers; national and local government; interest groups and local communities to help them improve their local environment.
About the Environment Agency
The Environment Agency is the leading organisation for protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales. We are responsible for making sure that air, land and water are looked after by today’s society, so that tomorrow’s generations inherit a cleaner, healthier world.