Protecting the Fiordland marine area was advanced significantly yesterday after Environment Southland approved the Fiordland Marine Regional Pathway Management Plan. It incorporates rules for clean vessels, clean gear and residual seawater which would apply to all vessels entering within one nautical mile of the Fiordland Marine Area's landward boundary. ''MPI has worked closely with the council and the Fiordland Marine Guardians over many years to protect Fiordland's unique and highly valued marine environment from the impacts of marine pests. ''The pathway plan is a welcome measure that will build on and strengthen existing efforts to keep marine pests out of the area. ''MPI will support the future operation of the plan as part of its ongoing commitment to the Fiordland marine programme.''

Source: Otago Daily Times April 05, 2017 18:10 UTC