Love our Lakes - protecting our waterways from pest plants
We’re lucky to be home to some of the most beautiful freshwater lakes, they’re more than just stunning places to visit – they’re the heart of our environment, supporting a huge variety of life.
Freshwater makes up less than 3 per cent of all the earth’s water, making it incredibly valuable. That’s why we all have a part to play in maintaining healthy lakes.
Love Our Lakes celebrates the protection of freshwater across the Mackenzie and Waitaki regions.
Shaun Burkett, team leader for Regional Biodiversity and Biosecurity explained why keeping pest plants out of our waterways is so important.
"You’ll have heard rivers and lakes being referred to as the lifeblood of the earth. That’s because freshwater makes it possible for most terrestrial life to survive," he said.
"Lakes and rivers sustain diverse ecosystems, providing a home for native plants, fish, and birdlife. But they can be threatened by invasive species, which often arrive accidentally through contaminated gear and equipment."
Love Our Lakes is a seasonal campaign promoting responsible behaviour in and around the Mackenzie and Waitaki lakes. This includes the principles of Check, Clean, Dry, a nationwide initiative celebrating 20 years this year.
"Rivers and lakes sustain a massive diversity of life. When invasive plant and animal species are introduced into the waterbodies, they can completely alter the conditions of the river or lake to make it impossible for the range of life to remain," said Burkett.
Some freshwater weeds, like lagarosiphon, can grow so dense that they make swimming, boating, and fishing difficult.
Programmes by us, and partners like Toitū Te Whenua and the Department of Conservation, are working hard to contain and eventually eradicate these threats. But human activity remains the biggest challenge.
A single drop of water can spread underwater pests
Reduce your impact on freshwater
The good news? There are simple steps we can all take to protect our lakes.
- Check, Clean, Dry: Before moving between waterways, check your gear for any plant material, clean off anything you can’t see, and dry it thoroughly for at least 48 hours. Even a single drop of water can carry invasive species like didymo.
- Bin your rubbish: Take everything you bring with you back home, and always use designated bins.
- Poo in a loo: Use toilet facilities wherever possible to keep our waterways clean.
- Wash away from the water: If you’re washing dishes, clothes, or even yourself, make sure to do it at least 50 metres away from the water’s edge.
Next time you’re out enjoying the water, take a moment to think about the little things you can do to keep our lakes healthy for generations to come. Because when we love our lakes, they love us back!
Love our Lakes is run by the Upper Waitaki Water Zone Committee.