All project-related activites are divided into four different tasks:
1. Compile an analysis of the introduction pathways of ten alien invasive species
To assess the risk of introduction, survival and spread of ten alien invasive species that are of concern in the European Union, a new analysis will be compiled in accordance with that of Kraut (2017). This analysis will adhere to the classification of species introduction pathways developed by the Convention on Biological Diversity, the survival of species in the Estonian climate and the probability of their introduction through the observed routes.
These species are:
- Andean pampas grass Cortaderia jubata
- Finlayson’s squirrel Callosciurus finlaysonii
- Pumpkinseed Lepomis gibbosus
- Himalayan knotweed Koenigia polystachya
- Japanese hop Humulus japonicus
- Japanese climbing fern Lygodium japonicum
- Tree of heaven Ailanthus altissima
- Box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis
- Rusty crayfish Faxonius (Orctonectes) rusticus
- New Zealand flatworm Arthurdendyus triangulatus
The results of this analysis will be used to design proactive management actions for early detection, control and eradication of alien species.
This analysis will be done by Lilian Pukk
2. Researching, developing and using different eradication methods that take into account the specificities of alien species and their habitats, and evaluating the eradication effectiveness
Mapping of alien crayfish eradication measures and methods will be done in collaboration with consultants from the Norwegian Veterinary Institute, who have prior experience with similar work. Each location where alien crayfish have been detected will be analysed separately. At first, the abundance and spread of alien crayfish will be determined in each location. Such information is collected by carrying out extensive test fishing. Also, eDNA samples will be collected from the exact same locations as the test fishing. Training in eDNA will be carried out at the Norwegian Veterinary Institute. Several eradication methods such as reducing the water level and using chemicals will be considered. However, as all of these methods have an impact on the waterbody and its biota, essential nature conservation and environmental assessments will be carried out and necessary permits will be acquired.
The distribution and impact of Nuttall’s waterweed will be mapped and possible eradication methods will be researched.
Work will begin in the summer of 2022. In case other eradication methods are not possible, intensive fishing will be carried out until the end of the project.
The effectiveness of eradication actions will be constantly evaluated during the whole project in order to be able to make necessary changes and ensure the maximum efficiency of the methods.
Work will be done by the alien crayfish control team, Nuttall’s waterweed control team and consultants from Norway.
3. Outreach activities
All project-related activities, results and other information will be updated and maintained on the project webpage. In addition, a couple of seminars will be held, one at the beginning and one at the end of the project, to present all of the activities and results to stakeholders and government agencies involved with environmental protection. During the project several outreach activities are planned that will be aimed at people interested in nature as well as private waterbody owners through various media calls (in cooperation with the Estonian Environment Agency). Through this action, people will be encouraged to report to the Estonian Environment Agency any alien crayfish sightings. Similarly, all aquatic invasive species sightings can be reported through a “Report a Sighting” tab on this webpage. More active media involvement is planned for before the start of the crayfish catching season, spring-summer in 2022 and 2023. To inform the public of any long-term eradication activities, information stands will be prepared and placed near the waterbodies.
The alien crayfish control team is responsible for all outreach activities.
4. Training the stakeholders on the problems caused by aquatic invasive species as well as on practical eradication methods
During the first half of the project all relevant stakeholders will participate in theorethical training about the problems and possible prevention measures of aquatic invasive species in Estonian freshwaters. Training will be held in Tartu in the spring of 2022 by the researchers from the Estonian University of Life Sciences.
Participation in the theoretical training is a prerequisite for the practical training. Practical training will be carried out in conjunction with the actual eradication activities by the same researchers from the Estonian University of Life Sciences.
Both training activities will be carried out by the alien crayfish control team.
Kraut, Ann (2017) Euroopa liidu jaoks probleemsete invasiivsete võõrliikide liikumisteede analüüs. Ökoloogia ja maateaduste instituut, Tartu Ülikool.