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Manitoba Government Introduces Proposed New Legislation Aimed at Stopping Spread of Zebra Mussels

Manitoba has introduced proposed new legislation that would support efforts to control the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as zebra mussels, Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Gord Mackintosh announced today.

“We know that fishers, boaters and beach goers want to see our lakes stay healthy and we are determined to make every effort to do that,” Minister Mackintosh said.  “This is a long-term fight and we are introducing the most comprehensive legislation in North America that would address the many challenges of containing zebra mussels and any other aquatic invasive species.”

The proposed legislation would include a number of measures specifically aimed at preventing the spread of zebra mussels beyond where they have already been discovered.  This is a significant issue facing many jurisdictions across the U.S. and Canada, Minister Mackintosh said.  The proposed legislation is designed to complement federal regulatory changes anticipated to be released later this week.

Highlights of the proposed AIS legislation would include:

• prohibiting the possession, transportation and release of aquatic invasive species;
• requiring trailered watercraft to stop and allow an inspection of the watercraft and water-based gear at watercraft inspection stations; and
• designating control zones where restrictions and prohibitions could be established in specific areas to prevent the introduction or control the spread of an aquatic invasive species.

“We are encouraged by these efforts aimed at stopping the spread of this invasive species,” said David Carrick, founder and past-president, Fish Futures Inc.  “We would hate to see anything impact the commercial and recreational fishery or see the kind of damage done in other areas where these mussels got a foothold.”

The proposed legislation would also enable regulations be made to address aquatic plants, animals and other things that may transport or serve as a host to aquatic invasive species and specific measures would be undertaken before launching a watercraft or before leaving a body of water.  Examples could include ensuring aquatic plants are removed from the watercraft and water-based gear, and the drain plug removed before transporting a watercraft away from a body of water. 

“No angler wants to contribute to the spread of zebra mussels,” said Don Lamont, professional angling educator.  “We all need to do our part so we can continue to enjoy all the fabulous fishing Manitoba lakes have to offer.”

The proposed legislation introduces new tools for enforcement officers and watercraft inspectors that would detect, control and prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.  Fine amounts would also be under review.

Hitching a ride on watercraft or water-based gear is the number one way zebra mussels get moved from one body of water to another.  Zebra mussel veligers are invisible to the naked eye and can survive in very little water.  Adult zebra mussels are able to survive out of water up to 30 days depending on temperature and humidity.

Manitobans and visitors are reminded to always use the proper four-step cleaning process – clean, drain, dry and dispose – when leaving the water to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, such as zebra mussels to other lakes and rivers.  Watercraft should either be cleaned with high temperature (50 C or higher) and high-pressure water, remain out of water for at least five days in the summer or 18 days in the fall to dry completely, or left in freezing temperatures for three consecutive days before launching again.

It is important to report sightings of zebra mussels outside of the South Basin of Lake Winnipeg to Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship as early detection is critical to contain the spread of this invasive mussel. Call 1-87-STOPAIS-0 (1-877-867-2470) (toll-free) or visit www.manitoba.ca/StopAIS.

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