August 13, 2015
Aquatic Invasive Species Update Bulletin # 8
Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship reports that watercraft inspection stations with decontamination units targeting aquatic invasive species (AIS) will be available for boaters at Selkirk Park in Selkirk and St. Vital Park in Winnipeg today through Monday, Aug. 17. In addition, one watercraft inspection team will be present on the South Basin of Lake Winnipeg roving between Balsam Bay and Winnipeg Beach, and the other team will rove along the Red River between Winnipeg and Lockport.
Zebra mussel veligers (larvae) have been identified for the first time in samples collected from the M.V. Namao in the channel of Lake Winnipeg between Hecla Island and Grindstone Point. Manitoba partners with the Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium to collect water samples for analysis of zebra mussel veligers from the M.V. Namao. This sampling is part of a larger, ongoing monitoring initiative.
Manitobans are reminded it is illegal to possess or transport zebra mussels in Manitoba. Zebra mussels are present in Lake Winnipeg south of Grindstone Point and in the Manitoba portion of the Red River.
Everyone is asked to do their part and:
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clean and remove any visible aquatic plants, AIS or mud from the watercraft, trailer and all
water-related equipment; - drain all water from motor, bilge, bait buckets and any compartments;
- dry all water-related equipment and any hard-to-drain compartments that have contacted the water with a dry towel or sponge before it is used in any other body of water; and
- dispose of unused bait and worms in the trash.
To report a zebra mussel or any other AIS from a location, take pictures and visit the website at www.manitoba.ca/stopaisor call 1-87-STOP AIS-0 (1-877-867-2470).
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