The province's ongoing battle against aquatic invasive species (AIS) is in the spotlight, with May 12-16 being declared Saskatchewan Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week.
The Ministry of Environment is using the opportunity to teach the public about the importance of slowing the spread of AIS and the steps taken to keep our province's waterbodies healthy; something that is all the more crucial ahead of the upcoming May Long Weekend, which will see thousands of residents make use of the countless outdoor spaces in Saskatchewan.
AIS are any non-native plant, fish, invertebrates or infectious diseases that have the potential to negatively impact the environment and are often spread through recreational activities such as boating and fishing, or through the release of unwanted aquatic pets into the wild.
Species such as zebra and quagga mussels can be all but impossible to eliminate once established, and millions of dollars can be spent to manage them.
"Our province, blessed with thousands of lakes and rivers, is a popular destination for anglers, boaters and others who enjoy recreation on the water," Environment Minister Travis Keisig said in an official statement.
"So far, our prevention efforts targeting zebra and quagga mussels have been successful - no invasive mussels have been found in Saskatchewan waterbodies."
Last year, six watercraft carried specimens of the aforementioned invasive mussels were intercepted by the Ministry of Environment, with a further 250 watercraft entering the province from high-risk areas being decontaminated as they were found to not be properly cleaned, drained or dried.
The ministry states that following the Clean, Drain and Dry guidelines for watercraft, trailers and equipment after each use is the best way to prevent the spread of AIS in Saskatchewan waters. Anything that can enter the water, be it kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, life jackets and angling gear, are possible sources of transmission and should be included in your clean, drain and dry procedure.
In addition to encouraging proper equipment handling and cleaning, Saskatchewan runs a Watercraft Inspection Program every summer. Watercraft inspection officers are on the lookout for AIS at key points throughout the province, ensuring that watercraft and equipment follow the guidelines posted above.
The ministry reminds residents and visitors to keep an eye out for inspection station signs when traveling with watercraft in the province, and that failing to stop at an active inspection station is against the law.
Members of the public can also help to monitor Saskatchewan for AIS through the Adult Invasive Mussel Monitoring (AIMM) program.
If you encounter an AIS, you can report it by calling the toll-free TIPP line at 1-800-667-7561. More information can be found by visiting the AIS page on the Government of Saskatchewan's website.