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Stop the spread of invasive species

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Freshwater Invasive Non-Native Species – Stop the Spread

Freshwater plants and animals are threatening the Lake District’s wildlife. New Zealand Pygmy weed, Nuttall’s waterweed and American signal crayfish are just a few of the species that will have devastating effects on our waters.

Why are invasive non-native species such a problem?

  • They are tough invaders, which can out-compete our native species
  • They grow rapidly and can often dominate a river, tarn or lake
  • Once established they are often very costly and complicated to kill or to control
  • They spread so easily you may not even know one is ‘hitchhiking’ on your kit!

Help native wildlife

Freshwater invasive non-native species of wildlife can hitchhike on equipment, footwear, clothing and boats. You may inadvertently spread the aliens even if you just go for a paddle! Every time you leave any water such as a river, tarn or lake:

Check – Clean – Dry

  • Check equipment/clothing for living organisms
  • Pay attention to damp hard to inspect areas
  • Clean and wash all equipment, footwear and clothes thoroughly
  • If you find organisms leave them at the water body or a hard surface to die out
  • Dry all equipment and clothing
  • Some species can live for many days in damp conditions
  • See the Check, Clean, Dry guide for water users on the Non Native Species website.

Watch the video from West Cumbria Rivers Trust from a day out on Derwent Water, providing tips on how you can help keep our lakes healthy.