The public now has the opportunity provide feedback.on a proposal for plan to help protect Fiordland from marine pests. The plan was publicly notified on 9 April 2016.

The Fiordland Marine Pathway Plan is the first of its kind to be developed in New Zealand and aims to reduce the risk of marine pests being carried in on local and visiting vessels. The plan incorporates rules for clean vessels, clean gear and residual seawater which will apply to vessels of all sizes entering the area. It also includes a Fiordland Clean Vessel Pass which will ensure vessel owners/operators are aware of the risks and the ways they can minimise them.

The Fiordland Marine Pathway Plan has been developed and will be implemented by a partnership group including Environment Southland, Fiordland Marine Guardians, Ministry for Primary Industries, Department of Conservation and Ngāi Tahu.

• A summary document outlining the Proposal for a Fiordland Marine Pathway Plan and the full proposal can be read online at www.es.govt.nz or phone 0800 76 88 45 to have a copy sent to you. Submissions can be made online or in writing.