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<p>The GB Non-Native Species Strategy sets out a three pronged approach to dealing
with invasive non-native species (INNS): horizon scanning and prevention; rapid response
and eradication; and long term control. The Government has undertaken a variety of
measures in line with the strategy, which is currently being revised and updated.
The implementation of the strategy is overseen by a programme board, chaired by Defra,
which includes the Environment Agency. The board regularly considers action to tackle
specific species, including those in and around watercourses.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>
</p><p>In 2011 Defra launched two campaigns to raise awareness of the risks posed
by INNS and to prevent their spread: <em>Be Plant Wise</em> and <em>Check, Clean,
Dry</em>. Defra is working closely with the Environment Agency to implement strategic
plans and promote the <em>Check, Clean, Dry</em> message, in particular to prevent
the spread of the quagga mussel, which arrived in England in October 2014. The Environment
Agency is also continuing to monitor water bodies for quagga mussels and to work with
water companies and watersports organisations to prevent the further spread, where
possible.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>The <em>Check, Clean, Dry</em> message is
equally applicable to efforts to control the spread of non-native crayfish. Defra
has also been funding the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science
(Cefas) to develop a trapping methodology to help remove crayfish from waterways.
Cefas has been examining how best to capture both adult and juvenile non-native crayfish
and where best to locate the traps within a water body to improve trapping success.
Its report is due for submission to Defra in March 2015 and will be used to produce
best practice guidelines for trapping non-native crayfish.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>
</p><p>In addition, between 2011 and 2015, Defra has provided funding to help set
up and establish local action groups (LAGs) throughout England, to tackle invasive
non-native species that can impact on the aquatic realm, including non-native crayfish,
Himalayan balsam and American mink. LAGs have undertaken a range of activities, including
the cutting and treatment of Himalyan balsam; the use of mink rafts to capture American
mink; and crayfish traps to capture non-native crayfish. LAGs have been a driving
force in promoting biosecurity messages and have also undertaken horizon scanning
for INNS, which are likely to arrive in local areas.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>The
Defra-funded trial release of a rust fungus to control the growth and spread of Himalayan
balsam was carried out during 2014 and this work continues to be monitored to assess
impacts.</p><p> </p>
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