Since their introduction to the Laurentian Great Lakes region in the 1980s, Zebra Mussels, a destructive aquatic invasive species (AIS), have spread to waterbodies in southern Ontario, south and central Manitoba, southern Québec, and New Brunswick. These mussels reproduce rapidly and cause significant ecological damage. They also deteriorate infrastructure by attaching to hard surfaces such as boats, docks, rocks, plants, and water intakes.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is dedicated to preventing the further spread of AIS, including Zebra Mussels. One of their initiatives includes conducting roadside inspections, like the one held last month at the Manitoba and Ontario border. From June 21 to 23, DFO fishery officers, with support from provincial AIS inspection staff from the Manitoba Department of Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources, stopped 398 vehicles transporting watercraft across the provincial boundary.
Prevention is the most efficient, practical, and cost-effective approach to managing AIS like Zebra Mussels. To prevent their spread, water users must clean, drain, and dry watercraft and related equipment when removing them from the water.
“Aquatic invasive species threaten biodiversity by altering food webs, damaging habitats and out-competing native species, causing serious harm to Canada’s aquatic ecosystems. They also impact our ability to enjoy outdoor tourism and recreational activities, damage infrastructure, and harm our economy by putting fisheries and related sectors at risk. That’s why we are taking enforcement action against aquatic invasive species to prevent further spread and protect Canada’s ecosystems and economy,” said the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.