Boaters urged to help tackle invasive water plants in Overijssel this season
As the boating season kicks off, authorities in Overijssel are calling on recreational boaters to help combat invasive aquatic plants like parrot feather and fanwort. These fast-growing species threaten local ecosystems, clog waterways, and disrupt boating—simple actions can make a big difference.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Invasive Species | Parrot feather, fanwort |
| Affected Area | Overijssel, including Nationaal Park Weerribben-Wieden |
| Organizations Involved | Province of Overijssel, Natuurmonumenten, Staatsbosbeheer, Waterschap Drents Overijsselse Delta, Municipality of Steenwijkerland |
| Impact | Overgrowth of waterways, harm to native plants/animals, clogged propellers |
| Boater Actions | Remove plants from boats, dispose of them properly, avoid dumping aquarium plants in water |
| Removal Work | Ongoing efforts may cause temporary detours |
The Province of Overijssel, along with local environmental and water management authorities, is responsible for maintaining the region’s waterways and protecting its ecosystems. This campaign highlights their role in addressing invasive species that threaten biodiversity and recreational activities.
Read the full translated article below
Start of the boating season: help remove invasive species from the ditches
With the start of the new boating season, the Province of Overijssel, Natuurmonumenten, Staatsbosbeheer, Waterschap Drents Overijsselse Delta, the Municipality of Steenwijkerland, and Nationaal Park Weerribben-Wieden are calling on boaters to be vigilant for invasive, exotic aquatic plants (parrot feather and fanwort). Help combat these water plants.
Invasive, exotic aquatic plants grow rapidly
These water plants grow extremely fast and can completely overgrow waterways. This is bad news for both nature and water recreationists: native plants and animals disappear, waterways silt up, and boat propellers get clogged.
What you can do while boating
Recreational users on and in the water play a crucial role in preventing the spread of these plants. It takes little effort but makes a big difference. Check your boat, propeller, or paddle for any remaining water plants. Do you see strands or entire plants hanging off? Turn off the engine and carefully remove them completely (preferably including the roots). Dispose of them on the bank, in the green container, on the compost heap, or in the special waste bins in Nationaal Park Weerribben-Wieden.
Do you use aquarium or pond plants at home? Never dispose of these plants in ditches, canals, or lakes, as even small fragments can spread. This also helps prevent new nuisances.
Removal work for aquatic plants
You may encounter work on the water where exotic aquatic plants are being removed. This sometimes means you’ll need to take a detour. It’s a hassle, but important: by taking extra action now, the waterways will remain open for everyone in the future.
Want to know more?
For all information about the campaign and the approach in Weerribben–Wieden.