[ 29/06/2009 ]
29 June, 2009
The Department of Regional Development, Primary Industry, Fisheries and Resources, is asking people to view a new website launched by the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to better inform marine industries and the public about the impacts of marine pests.
"The Northern Territory has dealt with a number of marine pest incursions including a major outbreak of the black-striped mussel in Cullen Bay marina in 1999, and over the last few years the invasive Asian green mussel has been detected on a range of vessels arriving in Territory waters," Manager Aquatic Biosecurity, Helen Cribb said.
"These threats were only detected because of the marine biosecurity precautions we have put in place around the Territory coastline.
"Over 250 exotic marine plants and animals have been introduced into Australian waters in the past decade by both commercial and recreational vessels.
"The new website explains how the National System for the Prevention and Management of Marine Pest Incursions is being implemented in Australia, and contains a marine pest identification guide and describes how people can maintain their boats to help prevent marine pests from spreading.
"I encourage everyone in the marine industries to have a look at this site, and help play a part in protecting the Territory.
"By recognising pests and alerting the authorities we can keep them out of our local waters," Ms Cribb said.
The web site can be viewed at www.marinepests.gov.au.
Please report any suspected marine pests to Fisheries Aquatic Biosecurity on 0413 381 094.