Meetings and outreach Archives

Training and operational resources for application of the LOF scale

24/06/2022

On 20 June, around twenty biosecurity and technical diving specialists from around New Zealand attended a 1-day workshop in Manukau to discuss boat biofouling and the Level of Fouling (LOF) rank scale. The workshop addressed the range of approaches for vessel hull surveys in NZ and the design of operational and training resources for use of the LOF scale.

Our PhD student Michelle Scriver presents her work at an international eDNA webinar

25/05/2022

Watch Michelle's talk on experimental study of environmental DNA & RNA fate for biosecurity applications, presented at the first Australia & New Zealand eDNA webinar.

Meet Gerd Banke – Nelson science teacher on a marine biosecurity mission

05/04/2022

With the experienced science teacher onboard we are aiming to develop an engaging educational toolkit that brings eDNA technologies into the classroom, introducing students to the cutting edge molecular technologies and building up a strong sense of kaitiakitanga for their local environment.

The journey of eDNA marine intruder to the classroom

23/12/2021

In the last two years the Detect team worked towards integrating DNA (eDNA) tools into New Zealand schools’ curriculum. The scientists have actively engaged with a range of schools and year groups to showcase a variety of marine biosecurity concepts and detection tools, including eDNA technologies.

To clean or not to clean: views of boat owners in keeping boat hulls free of biofouling organisms

14/12/2021

Researchers from the MANAGE AND RESPOND and ECONOMICS AND DECISION SUPPORT teams have joined forces to work towards an understanding of the factors that encourage or discourage hull cleaning behavior of the recreational boat owners in New Zealand.

From North to South – scientists set sail for two collaborative expeditions

01/11/2021

In 2021, the DETECT team had a big year on the water participating in two research expeditions, in two very distant and ecologically different areas of Aotearoa: Northland and Fiordland. These expeditions allowed us to collect valuable data on distribution of the high-profile non-indigenous species while testing our optimized molecular surveillance tools and protocols.

Joint Microplastics and Marine Biosecurity expedition

07/06/2021

Our 12-14 day expedition will collect microplastics and biosecurity data in the Hauraki Gulf & Islands areas and Whangarei, whilst exploring the wider marine environment of coastal Greater Auckland and Northland. This interdisciplinary oceanic research expedition aims to inspire and engage the public and educate people about the importance of working collaboratively to preserve a healthy ocean.

Towards the optimization of eDNA/eRNA sampling technologies for marine biosecurity surveillance

19/04/2021

An open-access peer-reviewed publication aimed to facilitate dialogue and innovation within this sector by reviewing current approaches for sample collection, post-sampling capture and concentration of eDNA, preservation, and extraction, all through a biosecurity monitoring lens.

Teaming-up with the Five Million: Exploring motivation of Kiwis to participate in the detection of marine pests

14/12/2020

To get a glimpse of citizens’ attitudes towards biosecurity in the marine environment and marine pest detection activities, the programme team run a focus group in collaboration with partner schools in Nelson.

Celebrating success!

25/11/2020

On 10 November 2020 the entire Biosecurity Toolbox programme team got together for our first Annual Programme Day. We reviewed and shared achievements made across all work streams, discussed challenges and opportunities and further strengthened the programme’s team spirit.

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