Manitoba re-doubles efforts against zebra mussels
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The province is doubling down in its fight against zebra mussels.
Conservation Minister Tom Nevakshonoff announced Monday that the province will spend $1 million towards inspections, enforcements, and public education to help limit the spread of the invasive species, up from $500,000. Zebra mussels, which first appeared in Lake Winnipeg’s south basin two years ago, can reduce the fish populations due to the change in the food cycle while accumulating on boats and docks and, after they die, wash up on beaches.
The money will go towards more watercraft inspection staff, which set up at key spots in throughout the summer, in the hopes of reducing the spread of zebra mussels.
“We have not given up on Lake Winnipeg and remain committed to fighting the spread of zebra mussels,” Nevakshonoff said, in a prepared statement. “That is why we are doubling our investments to prevent them from spreading further to other lakes and rivers, and to raise awareness about zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species, particularly with boaters.”
Nevakshonoff also announced that University of Winnipeg president Annette Trimbee will be the co-chair of the Lake Friendly Stewards Alliance Steering Committee and contribute to the province’s scientific committee.
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