The discovery of more invasive Undaria plants in the waters of Fiordland has been described as disappointing by Environment Southland.
Divers on a joint agency compliance trip discovered one mature Undaria pinnatifida plant and several juvenile plants on the line of the wreck of the boat Stella which is lying on its side on the shore of Chalky Inlet.
Environment Southland biosecurity and biodiversity operations manager Ali Meade said after the latest discovery they will continue to try to control the marine pest within the area.
“We’re absolutely gutted to find more Undaria in Fiordland, however it’s very important that we don’t give up now as there’s still a chance to control it. We continue to urge vessel operators to be vigilant. When you come into Fiordland your hull and gear must be clean.”
Ms mead said the latest discovery reinforces just how important it is for all boaties to abide by the rules of the Fiordland Marine Regional Pathway Management Plan to stop pests getting into the pristine waters of Fiordland.
The plan requires all vessels entering within one nautical mile of the landward boundary of the Fiordland Marine Area to hold a Clean Vessel Pass and to comply with clean vessel, clean gear and residual seawater standards.
Fiordland Marine Guardians chair Rebecca McLeod said visiting Fiordland is an absolute privilege and boaties need follow the marine management plan.
“Undaria is just one of a number of marine pests in New Zealand waters and we need to make every effort to reduce the risk of anything being carried into the area.”
