Province launches invasive mussels awareness campaign as fines spike

Posted on September 12, 2024 by Sunny South News

By Anna Smith
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Province of Alberta is cracking down on the threat of invasive zebra and quagga mussels with a multi-phase awareness campaign.

“Reports of invasive species are increasing across Canada and the United States, as tiny mussels can be easily spread through boats and other watercraft,” states the Province. “They can rapidly damage waterways and infrastructure, destroy habitats and can cause hundreds of millions in damages.”

All boaters are encouraged to avoid big fines and keep the province safe by cleaning, draining and drying their gear and stopping at inspection stations.

“This long weekend, 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,” said Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. “They may be tiny, but the environmental and financial damage they would cause if introduced is massive, so let’s keep ‘em out.”

To help combat this threat to native waterways, Alberta is using a variety of tools, including introducing the steepest fines for failing to stop with a trailered boat at an open inspection station, which is set at $4,200, and failing to remove a bilge plug when transporting a watercraft on a roadway at $600.

Due to the change, the campaign was launched prior to the long weekend to promote awareness and help Albertans remain compliant and avoid the hefty fines.

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

As of July 24, Alberta has inspected more than 5,500 boats and other watercrafts, nine of which were confirmed positive for invasive mussels. All of these boats were entering Alberta from other provinces or the U.S.

The province asks all boat owners to remember to “Clean, Drain, Dry,” all watercraft.

“Inspect and clean all watercraft, trailer and gear after every adventure, and remove all mud, sand, water and plant traces before leaving the shoreline,” said the province. They ask that watercraft be washed away from storm drains or other local water infrastructure, as if mussels are present, this could introduce them to the system.

They also ask that all water be drained from the craft, including internal compartments, coolers and life jackets.

“Dry the watercraft and gear completely between trips and allow the wet areas of your boat to air dry,” said the province. “Leave compartments open and sponge out standing water.”