Cottager’s Awareness: Be on the Lookout for Aquatic Invasive Species in Manitoba This Summer

As another cottage season rolls around in Manitoba, it is a good time for the public to be reminded of aquatic invasive species (AIS) threatening our local waterways- wetlands, creeks, rivers and lakes.  A number of aquatic invaders have already been reported over the past few years (e.g. Rusty crayfish), while others are knocking on Manitoba’s doorstep.  Invasive species are non-native plants, animals and pathogens which were accidentally or intentionally introduced into habitats outside of their native range.  Their introduction and spread has caused harmful effects on the environment, society, economy, and even human health.  Invasive species are also listed as a major cause of biodiversity loss, and alteration and degradation of habitat for native species.  The United Nations has proclaimed 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity, thus it is important more than ever to recognize the serious threat which aquatic invasive species pose to Manitoba’s landscape.

Aquatic invasive species are a problem because they aggressively grow and reproduce in and around water bodies.  Since these species are living outside their native range, they have no natural enemies (e.g. predators, competition, parasites or disease) to keep their population in check.  They can clog boat engines and cottage water intake lines, choke lakes and waterways, restrict use by boaters and swimmers, reduce native aquatic species (zooplankton, waterfowl, clams, etc), including sport fish, foul fishing gear, degrade the natural beauty of our lakes and waterways, and reduce waterfront property value.  They can compete with native species for food or habitat, alter the natural habitat, prey upon native species, and act as vectors for new diseases or parasites that could spread to native species. Any of these effects could have further widespread, detrimental impacts on native aquatic species and communities.

Aquatic invasive species arrived in North America through shipping (primarily in the Great Lakes region through discharge of ballast water), recreational boating, aquarium and water garden trade, release of live bait, live food fish trade, aquaculture, and man-made canals.  Once here, it is difficult to control or eradicate these species.  They will spread by hitching a ride on a trailered watercraft, and gear, and in bait buckets.  Examples of non-native aquatic species which have already invaded parts of Manitoba’s waters include: Rusty crayfish, Common carp, Rainbow smelt, and Asian tapeworm.etc.  Species of concern in proximity to Manitoba include Zebra mussel, Curly leaf pondweed, Round goby, and Spiny waterflea.

To protect our waters and to prevent further spread of aquatic invasive species in Manitoba take the following precautions:
CLEAN and inspect watercraft, trailer and gear. Remove all plants, animals and mud. Rinse using high pressure, hot tap water [50°C (120°F)}.
DRAIN all water from watercraft including the motor, livewell, bilge and bait buckets.
DRY watercraft for at least 5 days in the hot sun (if rinsing is not available).
DISPOSE of unwanted live bait and worms in the trash, and dump bait bucket water on land. Never release aquarium pets, plants or water into our lakes, rivers or wetlands.

Report sightings of aquatic invasive species calling the Aquatic Invasive Species Hotline (Toll Free in Manitoba): 1 87-STOP AIS–0 or 1 (877) 867-2470

For more information, visit: http://www.manitoba/StopAIS

The Invasive Species Council of Manitoba, a non-profit organization formed in 2006, is committed to promoting education and awareness and preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species in Manitoba.  For more information on invasive plants and animals, or to sign up for our free quarterly newsletter “Unwanted Invaders”, contact the Invasive Species Council of Manitoba at (204) 232-6021, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit our website www.invasivespeciesmanitoba.com.