Saskatchewan waters were free of invasive mussels in 2019.
The Government of Saskatchewan’s monitoring program found no mussels in 123 separate bodies of water.
Last year, more than 3,100 watercraft were checked for signs of aquatic invasive species (AIS), with 1,147 identified as high-risk and requiring further inspection. A total of 217 watercraft were decontaminated and no AIS were found.
“I’m pleased that our focus on public awareness and education, along with roadside watercraft inspections, decontamination and regular monitoring, continues to achieve positive results,” Environment Minister Dustin Duncan said in a press release.
When transporting watercraft in the province of Saskatchewan, boat plug must be removed and you must stop at watercraft inspection stations and submit to inspection, or risk a $500 fine.
It is illegal to bring prohibited aquatic invasive species into Saskatchewan.
The ministry works co-operatively with the province’s AIS Task Force, as well as with the Canada Border Services Agency and other provincial and territorial governments to co-ordinate prevention efforts across western Canada.
AIS, including zebra and quagga mussels, threatens lakes and rivers in western Canada. They can negatively affect aquatic habitat, fisheries, and infrastructure for irrigation, power generation, and municipal water supplies.
Invasive mussels are now found in Ontario, Manitoba, Quebec and in 34 states, including Minnesota, Montana and North Dakota.
For more information about AIS and fishing, visit the Saskatchewan Anglers’ Guide online.
