Posted:
May 14, 2021
Invasive species programs tackle tiny invaders
Inspection stations are now open throughout the province to prevent harmful zebra and quagga mussels from hitching a ride on boats and entering B.C. waterways.
From now until late October, inspectors with the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) will check boats for aquatic invasive species as part of the Province’s Invasive Mussel Defence Program. Inspectors are educating people about the importance of Clean, Drain and Dry – preventative steps that all boaters should practise when moving between lakes and rivers.
The Invasive Mussel Defence Program has three main components: watercraft inspections, lake monitoring, and public outreach and education. Last year, nearly 30,000 inspections found 16 mussel-fouled boats coming from Ontario, Arkansas, Wisconsin and Manitoba.