Didymo update: new finds, false alarms, permits

2006-11-11T21:32:23+13:00

Unfortunately, didymo has been reported in the Makarora and Wilkin rivers and is suspected in the Young. In a reprieve for the North Island, algae reported by an angler on the Rangitikei River was analysed by Biosecurity NZ and found not to be didymo.

In Fiordland, the Clinton river is closed and DOC have instigated a permit system for kayakers on the Arthur river. Unfortunately, communication from DOC has been poor and it is not totally clear how the permit system is to work. Apparently kayakers must clean their boat in front of DOC staff and transport the kayak dry to Sandfly Point Landing. Significant fines are threatened if these protocols are not followed. The NZRCA has contacted DOC seeking more detail on the implementation of the permit scheme; we have concerns over the implications of the scheme and the lack of communication to date.

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