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No invasive mussels found in Saskatchewan waters in 2024

More than 450 water samples from waterbodies across the province tested.
Zebra Mussels
In the quest to keep invasive species out of Saskatchewan water bodies, , the ministry inspected more than 3,500 watercraft, intercepted and decontaminated six carrying invasive zebra or quagga mussels and decontaminated more than 250 coming to Saskatchewan from high-risk areas.

REGINA — Saskatchewan water bodies are clear of invasive species according to a report from the Ministry of Environment

The ministry’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) monitoring program detected no invasive zebra or quagga mussels or spiny waterflea in Saskatchewan waters in 2024. Last year, the program tested more than 450 water samples from waterbodies all across the province.

In 2024, the ministry inspected more than 3,500 watercraft across the province. Ministry staff intercepted and decontaminated six watercraft carrying invasive zebra or quagga mussels and decontaminated more than 250 watercraft coming to Saskatchewan from high-risk areas infested with AIS that were not properly cleaned, drained or dried. The AIS program also focused on several species of invasive fish, including goldfish, koi and Prussian carp, as well as flowering rush, an invasive aquatic plant that can quickly outcompete native plants in Saskatchewan waterways. 

Invasive mussels continue to spread in many waters across North America, including waterbodies in Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec, as well as in 34 states including North Dakota and Minnesota. AIS such as invasive mussels pose a serious threat to Saskatchewan. Once established, these organisms are nearly impossible to eliminate. They can significantly affect aquatic habitat and fisheries and can cost the province millions of dollars each year to manage.   

The ministry works closely with Saskatchewan's AIS Task Force, which includes other government agencies, researchers and conservation organizations. The province also partners with Canada Border Services Agency and other federal, provincial and territorial governments to co-ordinate prevention efforts across Western Canada.

Watercraft users also have an important part to play in reducing the spread of AIS: 

  • Carefully follow the clean-drain-dry protocols for watercraft and gear that comes in contact with the water, before moving between waterbodies.
  • Stop at roadside watercraft inspection stations or risk a $500 fine, plus $80 surcharge.
  • Remove drain plugs on all watercraft during transport, as required by law.

For more information, visit the AIS page on saskatchewan.ca.

 

 

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