Code of Practice to Avoid the Introduction of Gyrodactylus Salaris to GB

This Code of Practice forms a key part of the communication process required between angling associations, river authorities, fishery owners, fish farmers, policy branches and scientists and provides practical measures to prevent the introduction of G. Salaris to Great Britain.

The Code describes activites that could potentially result in the introduction of G. Salaris and steps that should be taken to ensure risk is minimised. There are checklists for those carrying out high-risk activities including how to deal with equipment used in infected areas, particularly that associated with angling and in direct contact with fish, which is re-used in GB.

Specific risks are noted with each activity and suggestions are made as to how these risks can be minimised. A checklist is offered to anglers who have fished outside the UK within the previous seven days.

A comprehensive copy of the code can be downloaded (.pdf format, 1.7Mb). Click here.