This week is dedicated to educating the public about the harmful effects invasive species can have on our environment and economy.
The provincial government declared April 22 to the 28th as Invasive Species Awareness Week.
Zebra mussels are one of Manitoba's most concerning aquatic invasive species that have been confirmed in the province.
The province says these small clam-like animals have a huge economic impact to the areas they are found. In a media release, the government says across North America it has cost billions of dollars to control.
They were first reported in Lake Winnipeg in 2013 and DNA evidence has been found in Whirlpool Lake in Riding Mountain National Park.
Adult mussels can attach firmly to surfaces such as watercraft, trailers and water-related equipment like anchors, and larvae which are too small to see without a microscope, can survive in small amounts of water and may be transported by un-drained watercraft and equipment like bait buckets.
Water-users, like boaters and fishers, are reminded to do their part in preventing the spread of the zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species.
The annual watercraft inspection program will soon be up and running, and provincial staff will be answering questions and handing out information about AIS on Sunday, April 28 at Fort Whyte Alive.
If you are caught not following the Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations it can result in a fine. The fines are in effect year-round and carry a range of penalties ranging from $174 to $2,542. An example the media release gives is the set fine for an individual failing to remove drain plugs while transporting watercraft over land is $237.
“This week is a step toward making sure all Manitobans are aware of how invasive species affect our environment and what we can do to make sure our environment is healthy for generations to come.,” said Sustainable Development Minister Rochelle Squires.
