Tackling invasive plants and animals from other countries that have been introduced outside of their normal habitat or native country
The RYA wants to achieve
- Successful education of boaters to prevent the spread of invasive non-native species (INNS), ensuring they are following the 'Check, Clean, Dry' routine for both inland and coastal boating activities
- Ensure any proposals to minimise the potential biosecurity risk of recreational boating are proportionate, enforceable and effective
The RYA has successfully
- Worked closely with the GB Non Native Species Secretariat (NNSS), the Environment Agency, Natural England, Natural Resources Wales, Marine Scotland and Invasive Species Ireland to develop guidance for recreational boaters on minimising the spread of invasive non-native species
- Continues to work closely with Government and water companies to ensure that reasonable advice is communicated to our members to protect our waters from invasive non-native species, ensuring that our activities are not restricted by closures or movement controls
RYA position
- There is no current evidence to suggest that the spread of invasive non-native species has been caused by recreational boaters. It is crucial that all water users take every possible precaution to stop these species spreading.
- The RYA is working closely with Government and water companies to ensure that reasonable advice is communicated to our members to protect our waters from invasive non-native species, ensuring that our activities are not restricted by closures or movement controls in the future.
Find out more
For more information on how invasive non-native species can affect biodiversity, human health and the economy, read this informative article by the European Environment Agency or check out our dedicated INNS page.
For further advice, or to request leaflets or posters for your club contact environment@rya.org.uk
Advice on boating best practice can also be found on The Green Blue website.
Latest Updates
Biosecurity Minister urges sailors to check, clean, dry on Broads visit
RYA supports Lord Gardiner's visit as part of Invasive Species Week ... read more
It's here... Invasive Species Week 2017!
Helping raise awareness of the risk and impact of alien species ... read more
Heading abroad this summer? Don’t bring back more than you bargained for
Check Clean Dry Summer 2016 – don’t bring back invasive species and diseases from abroad... read more
New ‘Check Clean Dry’ guide for inland clubs
The Green Blue launches a new guide for inland sailing clubs to celebrate five years of CCD ... read more
Invasive Species Week 2016
RYA and partners raise awareness about the harmful effects of alien species ... read more
Celebrating 5 years of Check Clean Dry at RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show
Visit The Green Blue stand to help stop the spread of invasive non-native species ... read more
Anglian Water Park Byelaws
Anglian Water has agreed 'Check, Clean, Dry' biosecurity requirements for their waters with Defra under the Waterparks Byelaws 2014 ... read more
Help Stop The Spread Of Invasive Species
Spreading the word during Invasive Species Week (2-6 February). ... read more
Quagga Mussel presents a serious biofouling risk
Check, clean, dry to help stop the Quagga Mussel spreading ... read more
Prevent the spread of invasive species
Simple steps we can all take to help prevent the spread of alien species. ... read more
Give your bottom a good scrub
A clean hull increases our speed and improves fuel efficiency - and is vital in preventing the spread of alien species. ... read more
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