Paddlers can play a vital role in keeping our waters free of harmful species.
Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) are plants and animals introduced into an area outside of their natural habitat.
Most come from different continents.
INNS can negatively impact our health and the environment by reducing water quality and slowing down the flow of rivers.
They can increase the threat of flooding and clog whole waterways. This prevents people from paddling in their favourite spots.
Floating pennywort
Pennywort comes from South America and was introduced as an ornamental plant for garden ponds.
It can grow up to 20 centimetres a day, blocking out light and reducing the oxygen for other plants and animals.
Paddle UK and our partners run volunteer groups across the country to tackle the problem.
20 May 2024 – Stonebridge Lock – London – Use this link to volunteer >>
24 May 2024 – Fossdyke Navigation/The Catchwater Drain – Lincoln – Use this link to volunteer >>
25 May 2024 – Freeman’s Lock, River Soar – Leicester – Use this link to volunteer >>
26 May 2024 – Springfield Marina (Leaside Trust) London – Use this link to volunteer >>
Paddle UK is working to increase biosecurity, encouraging paddlers to Check, Clean, Dry.
Check
After leaving the water check boats for mud, aquatic animals or plant material.
Remove anything you find and leave it at the site.
Clean
Clean everything thoroughly using hot water, if possible, as soon as you can.
Pay attention to the insides of your boat and areas that are damp and easy to access.
Check your kit too. Invasive species love buoyancy aids and clothing.
Dry
Dry every part of your boat with a sponge or towel before leaving the site.
Some invasive plants and animals can survive for two weeks in damp conditions.
By following Check, Clean, Dry you can help stop the spread of invasive species.
Invasive Species Week 2024
Invasive Species Week is taking place from the 20 to 26 May 2024.
Raising awareness helps to prevent the spread, and reduce the harmful impacts, of invasive non-native plants and animals.
INNS Mapper is an app and website for the reporting of sightings, surveys and management of INNS.
Find out more the week and invasive species by visiting the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat website.
Paddle UK has partnered with Bio-Mate to raise awareness and help protect our blue spaces from Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS).
As part of the partnership, Paddle UK members will get an exclusive 15% discount on Bio Mate's new portable cleaning kit, available from their website.