June 6, 2016
Manitoba Announces Signing of Agreement to Battle Invasive Species
– – –Canadian Environment Week Runs June 5 to 11: Cox
The Manitoba government has joined forces with Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Yukon to mark Canadian Environment Week and announces the signing of an interprovincial-territorial agreement for a co-ordinated regional defense against invasive species, Sustainable Development Minister Cathy Cox announced today.
“Manitoba is the gateway to the West and an important battleground in the fight against the spread of aquatic invasive species, such as zebra mussels,” Cox said. “Working with our neighbours to the west allows us to make the most of our efforts to limit the further spread of invasive species.”
Aquatic invasive species (AIS), specifically zebra and quagga mussels, pose a major threat to the health of Western Canada’s aquatic ecosystems and, if established, have the potential to severely impact aquatic habitats, recreational and commercial fisheries, valuable recreational resources and water-related infrastructure.
Manitoba has worked with Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon and Saskatchewan to reach an agreement on a co-ordinated regional defense against invasive species. The initial scope of this agreement will focus on aquatic invasive species.
The agreement enables increased co-ordination between jurisdictions in Western Canada to share resources and co-ordinate planning related to both prevention and response to aquatic invasive species such as:
- pre-planning of watercraft inspection stations to maximize efforts on shared highway crossings; and
- increased ability to connect with resources from other provinces (e.g. people and expertise) to assist in a rapid response in the event of any mussel detections.
Manitobans are reminded it is illegal to possess or transport zebra mussels in Manitoba. Zebra mussels have been found in Lake Winnipeg, the Manitoba portion of the Red River and Cedar Lake north of Lake Winnipegosis.
Everyone is required to do their part and:
- inspect watercraft and water-related equipment for AIS;
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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 watercrafts including motor, bilge, bait buckets and any compartments;
- completely dry all water-related equipment and any hard-to-drain compartments that have contacted the water before it is used in any other body of water;
- dispose of unused bait and worms in the trash; and
- ensure all drain plugs and valves used to drain water are removed or left open when transporting watercrafts.
To find out more about Manitoba’s AIS laws or to report a zebra mussel or any other AIS, visit www.manitoba.ca/stopais or call 1-87-STOP AIS-0 (1-877-867-2470).
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