Keep Didymo out of NI rivers

Gavin Posted: 18 March 2016, 2:24 PM   North Island competitors at the Easter Champs must be sure not to take Didymo back with them. Or from any SI event anytime. NI is Didymo-free and needs to stay that way. Didymo, aka rock snot, has devastated very many SI rivers with thick ugly growth that badly retards normal aquatic insects and the fish that feed on them.  The Buller River at its outlet from Lake Rotoiti, very close to the Easter Mid Distance race, is badly affected.   Legal Status: Unwanted Organism. People are legally obliged to prevent the spreading of didymo.  It is a microscopic pest that can be spread by a single drop of water.  Penalties of up to 5 years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $100,000. If footwear, gaiters or anything else has been exposed to SI river water, this is what you need to do before using them again - Clean and Dry: 1. Soak and scrub all items with 5% solution of salt, nappy cleaner, antiseptic cleaner or household detergent. 2. If cleaning is not possible, items must be completely dry for at least 48 hours before entering any other waterways. For more info, see - http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/pests/didymo/cleaning-specific#vehicles