As part of its comprehensive strategy to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS), the Manitoba government has established an Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Forum to ensure a regionally diverse range of perspectives are incorporated into prevention and containment activities, Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt announced in a media release today.
“Keeping our waterbodies free of aquatic invasive species is a high priority for our government,” said Nesbitt. “We all have a role to play in stopping the spread of AIS, and this forum will bolster our ongoing co-operative work with stakeholders to protect the province’s waterways from species that harm the environment and the economy.”
The advisory forum will facilitate collaborative discussions and information sharing between stakeholders and the Manitoba government’s AIS program unit, as well as provide feedback and recommendations on preventing the introduction of AIS into Manitoba and containing thee spread within the province.
The forum held its inaugural meeting on June 22, and is comprised of volunteer members recommended by over 20 stakeholders for their demonstrated interest in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems, the minister added.
“Protecting our pristine northern lakes and waterways from the spread of aquatic invasive species is a priority for all citizens,” said Chris Smith, president, Citizens for Protecting Our Northern Waterways. “We look forward to participating with other organizations and stakeholders from across the province on the provincial advisory forum established to discuss and address this very real and ongoing threat to our waterways.”
All watercraft users are reminded to remain vigilant and do their part to protect the province’s water bodies from the introduction and spread of AIS, the minister noted. This includes ensuring all watercraft and water-related equipment are cleaned, drained and dry after use in any waterbody in Manitoba, and decontaminated after being used in an AIS control zone or waterbody designated with restricted access, such as Foot Print Lake located immediately north of Grand Rapids.
New AIS inspection stations opened near Minnedosa and Ste. Rose du Lac earlier this month, complementing the existing inspection stations in Headingley, Selkirk, Eriksdale, The Pas and Wabowden. A Grand Rapids inspection station will open in early July.
“The incredible lakes and rivers at the heart of Manitoba’s resource tourism economy are under a very real threat from aquatic invasive species,” said Noel Linsey, communications manager, Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association. “Protection of these ecosystems is paramount to ensure future generations of Manitobans and visitors to our wonderful province can continue to enjoy our world-class resource tourism destinations for years to come.”
Watercraft inspection stations help watercraft users comply with AIS requirements. Anyone transporting motorized or non-motorized watercraft, such as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, must stop at all open watercraft inspection stations along their route. Failing to stop at a watercraft inspection station can result in a $672 fine.
For more information on AIS, visit www.manitoba.ca/stopais
