As spring continues, waterways open, and boating season begins, the provincial government is turning their attention to combating aquatic invasive species (AIS). They will invest an additional $540,000 to help stop the spread of AIS, including a new fund to deliver AIS prevention resources to partners across the province, Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes announced today.
“Manitobans care deeply about our beautiful lakes and rivers and we want to ensure that all Manitobans will be able to enjoy them for generations to come,” said Moyes. “That’s why our government has stepped up with funding for partners and communities to support their efforts in protecting Manitoba’s waterways from aquatic invasive species.”
Later this spring, watercraft inspection stations will be set up throughout Manitoba to help water users comply with AIS requirements. Anyone transporting motorized or non-motorized watercraft over land must stop at all open watercraft inspection stations along their route. Operating schedules for these stations will be posted on the AIS website.
Manitobans are legally required to clean, drain and dry both motorized and non-motorized watercraft. This includes power boats, jet skis, sailboats, stand-up paddle boards, canoes and kayaks, as well as all water-related equipment including:
- watercraft trailers;
- fishing gear;
- paddles and anchors;
- farm and industrial gear such as water pumps;
- personal flotation devices including life jackets;
- beach toys (such as sand pails and shovels);
- floating devices and inflatables (such as tubes, rafts, water mats and hunting decoys); and
- scuba and snorkeling gear.
Last year, no boats were allowed on Clear Lake due to zebra mussels being found in the water. They were found there in November of 2023 and efforts to contain them the following summer proved unsuccessful.
This week is Invasive Species Awareness Week in Manitoba.
