Alberta officials inspect incoming boats for invasive species (Credit: GOA)

By Joel Mendelson

New task force to combat invasive mussels at the border

May 15, 2024 | 11:10 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Alberta government is launching the Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force to defend from invasive mussels and species.

Zebra and quagga mussels are not native to Canada and reportedly can wreak havoc on ecosystems and infrastructure.

The province is currently free of invasive mussels. However, increased detections are being reported across Canada and United States that have the potential to cause problems in Alberta.

The task force is being formed due to growing concerns that invasive mussels could arrive in Alberta. The unit will identify ways to improve inspection and detection, as well as to educate the public.

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas explained the urgency of the situation.

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“Boating season hasn’t even started and we’ve already intercepted two boats carrying invasive mussels into Alberta this year.” She says.

Schulz continued, “Zebra mussels and other invasive species may be tiny, but they can have massive impacts on our economy and Alberta’s rivers, lakes and waterways. We are taking decisive action by launching this new task force to identify ways to improve protection programs across the province.”

Zebra and quagga mussels are often introduced by the movements of boats and other watercraft across borders. Officials say that if these species are established in Alberta they could spread rapidly, clog waterways, upset lakes and ecosystems, and cost more than $75 million annually in damages to irrigation infrastructure.

Grant Hunter, MLA for Taber-Warner is leading the task force. The unit will work with partners to improve border protections and to find ways to strengthen the province’s rules and programs. It will also assess the possibility of stronger penalties, restrictions, inspection and more.

“Our province faces increasing threats from invasive species. By establishing a task force to combine expertise, resources and dedication, we will work more effectively to prevent the spread of invasive species and safeguard the health of our water bodies for generations to come.” Says Hunter

READ MORE: Alberta government taking steps to protect waterways from invasive species

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