National News> April 2008

BANNING FELT-SOLED WADERS

A discussion document proposing banning the use of felt-soled waders to restrict the spread of didymo is open for wider consultation.

The document seeks comments on a proposed ban on the use of felt soles to take effect in time for the 1 October start of the 2008 sports fishing season.  The New Zealand Fish & Game Council recognise felt soles as an important vector and banning the use of them would meet a number of objectives, including restricting the spread of didymo and future unwanted aquatic organisms, allowing Fish & Game and sport fishers in general to provide a strong lead in protecting New Zealand’s waterways and helping to change behaviour patterns amongst fresh waterway users everywhere.

An electronic version of the document is available on the Fish & Game New Zealand web site: here and any feedback or questions should be directed to:

The New Zealand Fish & Game Council
PO Box 13 141
WELLINGTON

EMAIL: NZCouncil@fishandgame.org.nz
PHONE 04 499 4767

Feedback will be received until Monday 19 May 2008 and will be used to inform the preparation of a proposal for consideration by the NZ Fish & Game Council and submission to the Minister of Conservation seeking a ban on the use of felt soles within Fish & Game’s areas of jurisdiction.