Source: Northland Regional Council
An automated gate has been installed at Kaipara’s Lake Taharoa boat ramp to support biosecurity measures and help prevent the spread of invasive freshwater pests, particularly the invasive freshwater clam.
Access to the lake – one of the taonga that form the Kai Iwi Lakes group – remains open.
However, from Friday October 23 boaties will need to complete a self-certification process – ideally 48 hours before they travel to the lake – and obtain a PIN to open the gate to launch and retrieve their vessel. They can do this by visiting: www.nrc.govt.nz/selfcertify
The approximately $53,000 cost of the gate’s installation – as well as associated ongoing operational costs – is funded by the Northland Regional Council, which has been working with Kaipara District Council, Te Roroa, Te Kuihi hapū, DOC and the Taharoa Domain Working Group to help protect the lake.
The regional council’s Kaipara constituency representative, John Blackwell, says the lake is one of Northland’s most treasured freshwater recreation destinations, and the gate aims to prevent unwanted invasive freshwater pests from spreading.
“We’re particularly worried about the freshwater invasive clam, which has not found its way to Taitokerau yet and we’re keen to keep it that way.” “Stopping pests from arriving is far easier and more cost-effective than trying to manage them once they’re established.”
Councillor Blackwell, a farmer, says many people don’t realise how this pest can impact across a range of areas that may not be immediately apparent.
“For instance, this clam can affect farm water reticulation, block ballcocks and water lines and potentially threaten the viability of the farm itself.”
He says the gate system reinforces the ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ message to ensure people have followed the correct biosecurity protocol before launching and encourages all lake users to play their part in protecting Kai Iwi Lakes for future generations.
“Essentially, we are trying to balance public access with environmental protection.”
“Northland Regional Council and its partners urge everyone to do their bit to stop invasive pests reaching our lakes.”
Councillor Blackwell says people wanting to learn more about freshwater invasive clam – and the potential risks it poses to rivers, lakes, infrastructure, and native biodiversity – can visit: www.nrc.govt.nz/invasiveclam