What is Biosecurity?
Biosecurity is a term that gets thrown around a lot, more so within the environmental sector. But what actually is it? Essentially biosecurity is the prevention of spread of pests and diseases that can pose a risk to animals, humans or the wider environment. Although the environmental industry should lead by example in reducing the spread of pests and pathogens, there are things that every one can do to help.
Below are a list of pests and pathogens that can be easily spread:
live plant and tree products, including ornamental plants
soil and organic material, such as leaf litter
natural methods, such as wind and water
animals such as fish, insects and invertebrates
How do they spread?
The examples above can be spread very easily. Especially in ways that you may not think at first...
Dirty tools, kit, machinery and vehicles, such as chainsaws, and all-terrain vehicles
On clothing, boots, trainers and bags
Pets, such as dogs and cats
Equipment used for recreational activity
Dumping garden waste into the wider environment (Be Plant Wise)
Why do we need biosecurity?
Pathogens/pests can be spread either deliberately (even with good intentions) or accidentally; you can find out more about this from our INNS Week 2023 post here. The reason we need biosecurity is is help with long term management. The easiest way to manage a species or pathogen, is to prevent it from becoming established in the first place.
How can I be more biosecure?
On most rivers, in our case the Tees, the biggest risk of spread to our waters are usually through recreational activities such as:
Angling
Boating/Canoeing
Other water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming
Walking and dog walking.
Good practice of biosecurity should be practiced at all times. Early use of biosecurity methods can prevent an outbreak, reducing the spread of pests and pathogens. Follow the Check, Clean and Dry method each time your equipment is used to prevent the spread!
