Bay of Plenty Biosecurity Team to Inspect Backyard Ponds for Invasive Species

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council's biosecurity team is set to begin inspecting backyard ornamental ponds across the Western Bay of Plenty from October, as part of an ongoing effort to detect and manage invasive aquatic pest plants and animals before they spread into the wider environment.

Ornamental ponds can unknowingly harbour invasive species that threaten the health of local wetlands, lakes, rivers, and streams. These pests can rapidly take over, blocking outflow pipes, forming dense canopies that dry out ponds, and crowding out native or desirable plants. The surveillance programme has already proved successful in other parts of the region and is now being extended to the Western Bay.

The team will help landowners identify what is growing in and around their ponds and provide practical advice on managing or removing unwanted species. Residents who spot a suspicious plant are encouraged to photograph it, record the GPS location, and report it to the biosecurity team by phoning 0800 STOP PESTS or emailing STOP.PESTS@boprc.govt.nz. Photos can also be shared via email with the subject line 'Pond Pests' for the chance to win a $100 garden centre voucher.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).