Provincial government taking steps to stop the spread of invasive species

The government of Alberta is reminding residents and visitors to clean, drain, and dry their water gear to ensure invasive species don’t enter the province.  

Zebra mussels and quagga mussels can be easily spread through boats and other watercraft, damage waterways and infrastructure, and destroy habitats and water quality.   

To prevent the spread of invasive species, the provincial government is launching a multi-phase campaign to increase public awareness of invasive mussels, and how to keep them out of Alberta.  

All boaters are encouraged to clean, drain, and dry their gear, and stop at inspection stations.  

“We’re asking for all Albertans’ help in keeping our province invasive mussel-free. It’s up to all of us to remain diligent and do our part so these invasive species stay outside our borders. They may be tiny, but the environmental and financial damage they would cause if introduced is massive, so let’s keep them out,” said Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas.  

Along with high fines and the public awareness campaign, the provincial government also launched a new Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force, increased the number of inspection stations, added more inspectors, and is keeping stations open as long as possible.  

Albertans and visitors are reminded to take steps to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and diseases:  

Clean:  

• Inspect and clean all watercraft, trailers, and gear after every adventure.  

• Remove all mud, sand, water, and plant traces before leaving the shoreline.  

• Rinse, scrub or pressure wash your boat, kayak, or canoe and gear on dry land away from stormwater drains, ditches, or waterways. Do not use a local carwash – if invasive species are present, you could unknowingly introduce them as the water from the carwash is released into the environment.  

Drain:   

• On land, before leaving the water body, drain all water from internal compartments, bait buckets, coolers, and life jackets.  

• Raise and lower outboard engines several times to ensure all water has drained out.  

• Drain non-motorized watercraft by inverting or tilting the watercraft, opening compartments, and removing seats if necessary.  

Dry:  

• Dry the watercraft and gear completely between trips and allow the wet areas of your boat to air dry.  

• Leave compartments open and sponge out standing water.