May 19, 2023
Manitoba Government Advises Watercraft Users to Clean, Drain and Dry Boats this Victoria Day Long Weekend
– – –Inspection Stations Open to Protect Against Aquatic Invasive Species: Nesbitt
Heading into the Victoria Day long weekend, the Manitoba government is encouraging Manitobans to do their part to help protect the province’s water bodies from aquatic invasive species (AIS), Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt said today.
“Maintaining the quality and quantity of our province’s precious water resources is critical to the environmental, economic and social well-being of Manitoba, now and into the future,” said Nesbitt. “The Victoria Day long weekend is regarded by many people as the unofficial kickoff to summer and we encourage Manitobans to be vigilant to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.”
The Manitoba government’s annual watercraft inspection program has started with inspection stations in Headingley, Selkirk, Eriksdale, The Pas and Wabowden opening last weekend. Additional inspection stations in Grand Rapids, Ste. Rose du Lac and Minnedosa will open in the coming weeks. The new locations in Ste. Rose du Lac and Minnedosa respond to growing zebra mussel and other AIS threats in western Manitoba.
Watercraft users need to ensure all watercraft and water-related equipment are clean, drained, and dried after use in any water body in Manitoba. In designated AIS control zones, watercraft need to be decontaminated.
Watercraft inspection stations help watercraft users comply with AIS requirements. Anyone transporting motorized or non-motorized watercraft over land must stop at all open watercraft inspection stations along their route, the minister noted.
For more information on AIS, requirements and the location and hours of watercraft inspection stations, visit www.manitoba.ca/stopais.
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