CAISIE biosecurity demonstration at the 2011 Lough Corrib Meet of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland Powerboat Branch
Dr Joe Caffrey and Dr Michael Millane of the CAISIE project gave a biosecurity and boat cleaning demonstration on the 13th of August at Lisloughrey Pier as part of the 2011 Lough Corrib Meet of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) Powerboat Branch. Over 50 people, and 30 powerboats and cruisers, were present for this event.
A range of aquatic invasive species that are found in and around our waterways were on display. Of particular focus were the detrimental impacts of ‘aquatic hitchhiker’ species, which can easily foul boat hulls, engines and trailers and therefore may be inadvertently spread by moving boats from invaded to uncolonised waterbodies. Biosecurity guidelines produced by CAISIE and Inland Fisheries Ireland advising on the disinfection of boats and angling gear were distributed and discussed with those in attendance.
CAISIE were encouraged by the engaging attitude of the IWAI members, who showed a good level of interest and general knowledge on these issues. Indeed, awareness of aquatic invasive species and their impacts as well as the implementation of biosecurity guidelines by this important stakeholder group are a vital component in preventing new introductions and limiting the further spread of aquatic invasive species in Ireland.
Dr Joe Caffrey (IFI, CAISIE) highlighting the threat of aquatic invasive species to our native ecosystems and waterways at the IWAI Powerboat Branch event.
Dr Michael Millane (IFI, CAISIE) discussing the invasive curly-leaved waterweed (Lagarosiphon major) which has invaded Lough Corrib at the IWAI Powerboat Branch event.