Invasive non-native species: why they are a problem and how to help protect your sport and the environment

Himalayan balsam is a prolific invasive on river banks, making the river more susceptible to erosion.
Photo: istock/Francesca Leslie

Invasive non-native species (plants and animals), such as signal crayfish, killer shrimps, zebra mussels and Himalayan balsam can cause serious environmental problems that can be irreversible, and interfere with the activities we enjoy by damaging boats, killing fish, and blocking up waterways, making it hard to fish or use them for boating.

In support of Invasive Species Week 2025, The Angling Trust, British Rowing, Paddle UK, and the Royal Yachting Association are holding a joint webinar for all recreational water users to raise awareness of this issue and how water users can help.

Invasive Species Week runs May 12-18 and you can join this webinar hosted by the GB Non-native Species Secretariat to learn about:

  • what invasive non-native species are, and why they are a problem for recreational water users;
  • how National Governing Bodies are working together to protect your sport and the environment;
  • how clubs are helping to protect the waters they use, and what you can do to help.

This online event brings together speakers from:

  • The Angling Trust
  • British Rowing
  • GB Non-native Species Secretariat
  • Paddle UK
  • The Royal Yachting Association

Learn more about Invasive Species Week which features other webinars focussing on: future threats and prevention; managing aquatic plant invasions, and invasives on the river Tees.

Learn how you can help prevent the spread of invasive non-native species at: www.nonnativespecies.org/invasivespeciesweek

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