Using the right anti-fouling paint for your boat, and applying it both regularly and correctly is critical for preventing the spread of harmful marine pests.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Biosecurity Officer Hamish Lass said that by keeping their hulls clean, boat owners make it harder for pests to latch on and become more widespread.

“It only takes one infested boat in the wrong place, at the wrong time to create a costly problem in the Bay. The golden rule for hull maintenance is ‘no more than light slime, all the time’. We also ask people to re-check and clean their hull before they sail to a different area, every time,” commented Mr Lass.

What you can do

•    Thoroughly cleaning your hull before you leave your home port is the best approach.

•    Remember that some councils have rules about cleaning your boat in the water.

•    Choose the right antifoul for the way you use your boat, and keep it fresh.

•    Keep your haulout/antifoul receipts onboard to provide as evidence of recent treatment or lift and wash.

Tip

Pests such as fanworm are really good at hiding in nooks and crannies and even under your keel base, so make sure these get attention before your boat goes back in the water.

Anyone who sees a heavily fouled hull or suspicious marine life in the Bay of Plenty should report it to Regional Council by calling 0800 ST0P PESTS (0800 780 773).

A boat cleaning guide and further information about marine pests is available at www.marinepests.nz