SASKATOON, Sask. — A recent watercraft inspection at Blackstrap Provincial Park demonstrates why roadside checks and prevention efforts are essential, according to Sask. Community Safety.
The agency says a routine watercraft inspection by Saskatchewan conservation officers led to the discovery of an invasive mussel-fouled boat at Blackstrap Provincial Park.
On July 17, conservation officers stopped a vehicle towing a boat in Blackstrap Provincial Park that had recently been in Lake Ontario. During the boat inspection, officers found zebra mussels, an aquatic invasive species attached to the watercraft, along with standing water and aquatic plant material.
Conservation officers worked with the Ministry of Environment to immediately implement a quarantine order, ensuring the watercraft could not enter Saskatchewan waterways. The boat was decontaminated, and an additional 30-day quarantine was established to eliminate any additional risk to provincial waterways. The Ontario resident was also charged with transporting a prohibited species.
"Our conservation officers are on the frontlines protecting our natural resources, and this inspection emphasizes the importance of collaboration to prevent the contamination of Saskatchewan's waters," Community Safety Minister Michael Weger said.
"Watercraft inspections are not just a regulatory requirement; they are one of the most effective tools we have for stopping aquatic invasive species from entering and damaging Saskatchewan's waterways."
Officers will be conducting roadside check stops near Waskesiu Lake on Aug. 28.
Aquatic invasive species, such as zebra and quagga mussels, are transported between waterways by boats, trailers and water-related equipment. Once established, these species are nearly impossible to eliminate and can cause significant environmental and economic damage. Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species requires strong enforcement, effective inspections and the cooperation and support of every boat and watercraft owner.
Officials say it is important for anyone using a watercraft or water-related equipment to be aware of regulatory requirements in Saskatchewan and other provinces they plan to visit. Following the detection of zebra mussel larvae in Lake of the Prairies, residents are reminded that some provinces, including Manitoba, have established control zones to manage aquatic invasive species. To learn more about control zones and requirements for transporting watercraft in Manitoba, visit: Manitoba.ca/stopAIS.
"Watercraft inspections are critical to ensuring Saskatchewan's waterways are protected from the spread of aquatic invasive species," Environment Minister Darlene Rowden said.
"This incident highlights the importance of following responsible boating practices, including stopping at inspection stations, understanding provincial regulatory requirements and using the Clean, Drain and Dry guidelines. Anyone who plans to enjoy our province's many beautiful lakes and rivers must do their part to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and protect our waterways from the permanent damage they can cause."
Throughout the summer and early fall, conservation officers and watercraft inspectors operate roadside check stops and inspection stations across the province. Anyone transporting a watercraft including boats, personal watercraft, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards must stop at open inspection stations. Inspections typically only take a few minutes to complete.
It is illegal to transport watercraft without removing the drain plug, possess or transport prohibited species, refuse to stop at open watercraft inspection stations or prevent officers, including watercraft inspectors, from inspecting watercraft and equipment.
Following the Clean, Drain and Dry guidelines can prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. To avoid penalties under The Fisheries Regulations, follow these simple steps:
- Clean off all aquatic plants, mud and debris;
- Drain all water from the bilge, ballast tanks, live wells and other compartments; and
- Dry the watercraft and all related equipment before launching into another waterway.
For more information about Saskatchewan's Watercraft Inspection Program and aquatic invasive species prevention, visit: Aquatic Invasive Species | Invasive Species | Government of Saskatchewan.
