Household pet fish becoming problematic invasive species in Lethbridge lakes

Oct 26, 2021 | 1:33 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Residents of Lethbridge are being urged to not release fish into local waterways.

The city says goldfish, koi, and other aquatic invasive species have become an issue at Firelight Park, Chinook Lake, and Elm Groves Pond.

When this happens, they can alter aquatic habitats so the water bodies become inhabitable for native populations.

“They can survive Alberta’s climate and grow to be very large, and with no natural predators in Alberta, will out-compete native species for resources. As such, they have been listed as invasive species by Alberta Environment & Parks,” reads a media release from the City of Lethbridge.

Starting Wednesday, October 26, officials will take an inventory of invasive species at Firelight Park to determine the types, sizes, and quantities of fish.

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This will allow them to prepare the necessary environmental permits and scope to address the issue.

According to the city, this work should be done by the end of Thursday, weather permitting.

The public is being reminded to never release aquarium or domestic pond water, plants, or dead or alive animals into water bodies. If you find goldfish in your storm pond, do not release it back into the storm pond.

More details on aquatic invasive species in Lethbridge here.

by David Opinko