Eradication methods are being considered to remove zebra mussels from Riding Mountain National Park.
"There are many approaches to eradicating zebra mussels. At this time, Parks Canada is considering all options to eradicate zebra mussels in Clear Lake using the best available science, Indigenous knowledge, and in consultation with third-party experts in the field," shares Mireille Kroeker, Public Relations and Communications Officer for Riding Mountain National Park.
"Parks Canada will review the evidence and determine the best course of action as this information becomes available. Any decision will be communicated widely. Parks Canada is working closely with partners and other jurisdictions to ensure we make the best possible, evidence-based decisions," she adds.
"Zebra mussel infestations in Lake Winnipeg and the Nelson River have already cost the government of Manitoba over $10 million annually to manage, not including the lost revenue from tourism and fishing. They cost governments in the Great Lakes region around $250 million annually to manage."
"Riding Mountain National Park remains committed to mitigating the ecological impacts of a zebra mussel infestation," notes Kroeker.
Here is a link to a video of a juvenile zebra mussel attached to a tire on a dock at Riding Mountain National Park: zebra mussels RMNP