Photo Credit: Government of BC

By Sam Bennison

Environment

BC Hydro and conservation group partner with Provinces Invasive Mussel Defence Program

May 1, 2024 | 5:00 AM

PRINCE GEORGE— As boaters get ready for the summer season on the lakes and rivers the Province is monitoring the waterways to ensure invasive mussels stay out of B.C.

The Invasive Mussel Defence Program (IMDP) inspects waterways for invasive zebra and quagga mussels, ensure people know the dangers of the species and enforce watercraft inspections. Inspection stations are open until October with inspectors promoting B.C.’s directive that everyone follow the “Clean, Drain, Dry” guidance, preventative steps every boater is expected to practise when moving between lakes, rivers and other water bodies. This ensures the mussels don’t hitch a ride on anyone’s watercraft

BC Hydro and conservation organizations are increasing their support for the IMDP. BC Hydro has made a five-year commitment of annual funding of $900,000 beginning in 2024. The BC Wildlife Federation, Pacific Salmon Foundation, and Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation are also providing a collective contribution of $150,000.

“I welcome the support from BC Hydro and our conservation partners as we continue the crucial work of keeping our waterways free of invasive mussels,” said Nathan Cullen, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. “The Province has made fighting invasive mussels a priority and we will keep taking action alongside our partners and communities.”

While, the Government of B.C. welcomes the contributions they are renewing their calls for federal funding to resume for the program.

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The Province says the invasive zebra and quagga mussels pose significant threats to not only the enviroment but the economy as well because of their ability to damage essential water infrastructure and outcompete B.C.’s native species and ecosystems. It’s estimated that if the species were introduced to B.C. it would cost around $64 million to $129 million every year to remove and manage the mussels.

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Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com