Travel restrictions played in a role in ensuring Saskatchewan waterways were free of invasive mussels in 2020.
The Ministry of Environment’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) monitoring program detected no invasive mussels in the 125 waterbodies sampled throughout the province last year.
“Once again, our surveys have shown the effectiveness of prevention activities in protecting Saskatchewan’s lakes and rivers from invasive species threats,” Environment Minister Warren Kaeding said in a press release. “Our comprehensive provincial strategy includes monitoring, public awareness and education, as well as roadside watercraft inspections and decontamination, all important components of the program.”
AIS, such as zebra and quagga mussels, pose a serious threat to lakes and rivers in Western Canada. They can severely affect aquatic habitat, fisheries, valuable recreational resources and important infrastructure for irrigation, power generation, and municipal water supplies.
Last year the ministry inspected 911 watercraft. A total of 630 were identified as high risk for AIS, requiring further inspection. In total, nine watercraft were found to be contaminated with invasive species and 164 watercrafts were decontaminated.
The ministry says that travel restrictions prevented movement across the international border. As a result, most inspections took place near the Saskatchewan/Manitoba border.
Boaters are reminded to do their part in AIS prevention by diligently following clean-drain-dry protocols for watercraft and equipment, and by complying with provincial regulations. Anyone transporting watercraft in Saskatchewan must remove the boat plug and stop at watercraft inspection stations to be checked, or risk a $500 fine. It is illegal to bring prohibited AIS into Saskatchewan.
The province is surrounded by invasive mussels, which are currently found in Ontario, Manitoba, Quebec, as well as in 34 states, including Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota.
For more information about AIS and fishing, check the Saskatchewan Anglers Guide.
