Weeds in lakes, streams and other waterways are notoriously difficult to control once they’ve established, often requiring expert intervention. If you’re considering tackling aquatic weeds, seek advice from an expert first to ensure you’re using the right methods without damaging native ecosystems.

The simplest and most effective way to protect our waterways is to stop new weeds from getting in.

Check, Clean, Dry

Check your gear – remove all plant matter and mud from boats, trailers, and other equipment before leaving a waterway.

Clean thoroughly - wash all your equipment (e.g. nets, machinery, footwear and clothing) thoroughly with a 10% detergent solution for 10 minutes or 2% bleach solution for at least one minute in water before moving to a new waterway.

Dry if you can’t clean - if you can’t clean your gear, either use your gear in only one waterway OR let it dry completely to the touch inside and out and then wait another 48 hours before using it again.

Visit Check Clean Dry for more information.

Aquarium or fish tank owner? Do your part and follow safe tank practices

Cleaning your tank

Regular cleaning keeps your tank healthy and your fish happy, and it’s also an opportunity to protect our precious waterways.

Weekly water changes

Instead of pouring used tank water down the the sink or drain:

• use it to water houseplants or your garden
• discard it on grass or gravel – away from any drains.

Tank water contains nutrients that are great for plants, but may carry organisms that could harm local waterways if poured into drains.

Emptying a tank for sale or storage

If you’re packing away or selling your tank:

• take it outside, away from any drains
• scrub it with white vinegar and a microfibre cloth (or newspaper) to remove algae and water stains
• for stubborn grime, try an algae scraper
• for heavy staining, use a diluted bleach solution (1 Tbsp bleach to 4 L water) and be sure to rinse thoroughly - bleach residue is toxic to aquatic life
• discard all used water on bare ground or gravel, well away from any drains.

What to do with an unwanted aquarium

Sometimes an aquarium no longer fits your lifestyle. Here are some safe, environmentally friendly options for rehoming or discarding your tank and its contents.

Dispose of aquarium plants responsibly

Aquatic plants should never be discarded into waterways. Many popular aquarium species are invasive and can harm our freshwater ecosystems.

• Toss unwanted plants in your garden, well away from any drains.
• Do not put them in the green waste bin in case they are an invasive species.
• Pour the tank water onto your garden or on the lawn, not down any drains.
• Never throw your aquatic plants into freshwaterways. Many of the plants that look great in a tank are introduced species that can cause big problems if discarded into freshwater.

Finding a new home for your pet

Rehoming is always the best option. Try these options to help find them a new home:

• local Facebook groups or community forums
• friends, family, or neighbours
• SPCA or animal shelters
• schools, rest homes, or aquarium shops
• turtle rescues

If no suitable home can be found, consult a veterinarian for humane options. Never flush your pets down the toilet - it’s cruel and harmful to the drain network.