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Abstract:
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The Risk Assessments carried out as part of the Great Britain (GB) Contingency Plans for control of Gyrodactylus salaris identified biological pathways by which G salaris could be introduced into GB, risk commodities and risk areas. High levels of protection are considered essential, as the consequences of G. salaris infection being introduced into GB and becoming established in indigenous salmon populations would be severe. Communication is a central and integral part of all stages of risk assessment. Regular discussions are and will continue to be held between scientists, policy branches, angling associations, river authorities, fishery owners and fish farmers. This Code of Practice forms a key part of the communication process, providing practical measures to prevent the introduction of G. salaris to GB. The Code describes activities that could potentially result in the introduction of G salaris and steps that should be taken to ensure the risk is minimised. There are short checklists for groups carrying out high-risk activities. In the event of introduction of G. salaris, measures to minimise the impact are detailed in the Contingency Plans for the Control of Gyrodactylus salaris in GB.
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