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The Saskatchewan Environment Ministry is encouraging the public to help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species, which can cause significant harm to bodies of water if left unchecked.
Aquatic invasive species are often spread inadvertently through recreational activities like fishing and boating, the ministry said.
Invasive species like zebra and quagga mussles can be very difficult to eliminate from a body of water once they become established, meaning prevention is crucial to conservation efforts.
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“In addition to their environmental impacts, high-risk species such as zebra and quagga mussels also pose significant economic risks by affecting critical infrastructure related to power generation, irrigation, and municipal and industrial surface water use,” the ministry noted.
“Alberta and British Columbia estimate annual management costs associated with zebra or quagga mussels could reach up to $100 million should the species become established.”
Decontaminating watercraft – including boats, trailers, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards – is essential to prevent invasive species from spreading, the ministry said.
The ministry inspected more than 4,000 watercraft across the province last year, and found that more than 750 were not cleaned, drained and dried properly, meaning a full decontamination was required.
“Motorists transporting watercraft are required by law to stop at all open inspection stations,” the ministry said.
“Provided your watercraft is cleaned, drained and dried, inspections are quick – typically taking only a few minutes. By stopping at an inspection station and working together, Saskatchewan can continue to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and protect our waters for generations to come.”
This year, the province will also launch an innovation challenge around aquatic invasive species, inviting technological developments that could help protect Saskatchewan’s waters.
The public can also help monitor invasive mussels through a provincial program.
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