We are looking to open the Bovington complex this coming Monday (9th September) with all Biosecurity measures following the KHV outbreak now in place.

In respect of the losses suffered there were 12, confirmed, fish deaths on Bovington1 and none on Bovington 2.

These fish were up to and just over 20lb. With one fish unfortunately close to 35lb.

A few rules will be in place for the Bovington complex once open.

It is compulsory that anglers dip their nets, retainers & slings in the tanks provided on entry and exit of the complex. The tanks are situated near the toilet of the Bovington 1 car park. Failure to do this will result in the member being banned. There is a cctv camera pointing at the tanks and another on the entry gate so if you don’t do it we will know it’s you.

All unhooking mats, cradles, waders, wellies & braided mainlines must be fully dry before fishing, and please make sure they are dry before fishing other waters.

Dry equipment of any type is the best way to stop the spread of any diseases.

The use of Keepnets will not be allowed until such time that we have been given the all clear from the FHI for the use of keepnets.

Anyone caught breaking these rules will be banned, remember we will be watching.

Anyone who is not familiar with the KHV virus , below are some facts , taken from various sources, on the Virus.

K.H.V

Koi herpesvirus (also known as Cyprinid herpesvirus 3; CyHV3) is classified as a double-stranded DNA virus.

Koi herpesvirus disease (KHVD) affects fish of various ages, often resulting in 80%–100% mortality in susceptible populations when water temperatures are between 60° and 77°F (16° and 25 °C)

What are the signs of KHV?

Clinical signs of KHV are often non-specific. Mortality may begin very rapidly in infected populations, with deaths starting within 24 to 48 hours after the initial onset ofclinical signs.

How do fish get infected with KHV?

Methods of spreading (transmission) of KHV include direct contact with infected fish, contact with fluids from infected fish; and contact with water, mud, or other fomites/vectors that have come into contact with contaminated systems.

The infectious virus primarily enters susceptible fish through the skin, including gill tissue.

Depending upon water temperature, susceptible fish that are exposed to KHV may either become infected, develop disease, and die.

Fish that survive exposure to KHV or receive the KHV vaccine may become immunized and develop a level of protection against the virus, although the length of protection remains unknown.

KHV disease (KHVD) outbreaks typically occur in spring and autumn when water temperatures are between 60° and 77°F (16° and 25 °C) with an incubation period of 7–21 days depending upon water temperature.

Studies in Israel have shown that KHV remains viable in water for at least 4 hours, but less than 21 hours, at water temperatures of 23–25°C . Studies in Japan have shown a significant reduction in the infectious titre of KHV within 3 days in river or pond water or sediment samples at 15°C.

Many thanks for your understanding and cooperation.

C.A.P.S Committee.

Bovington Update 6th Sept.