Alberta’s government is asking for public feedback on a proposed annual boat pass aimed at keeping invasive mussels out of the province’s lakes and rivers.Zebra and quagga mussels have not yet taken hold in Alberta, but the risk is growing across North America. These tiny species can cause millions in damage to water systems, disrupt ecosystems, and threaten recreation. Officials say prevention is far cheaper and more effective than containment once the mussels arrive.The proposed watercraft pass would apply to boats, jet skis, canoes, kayaks and other vessels used on Alberta waters. .Albertans are invited to provide feedback on how the pass should be structured and priced until August 25. Suggestions include charging per operator or per watercraft, with all revenue going toward invasive species prevention.“Albertans love the great outdoors, and we all need to work together to keep these invasive species out,” said Grant Hunter, associate minister of water and chair of the Provincial Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force.Alberta’s invasive species defence strategy includes mandatory watercraft inspections for vessels entering from high-risk areas, additional inspection stations, increased staff, new K-9 detection teams and upgraded decontamination equipment. .The province is spending $18 million over five years on the initiative.In 2024, Alberta conducted 13,408 watercraft inspections, the most since 2019, and found 15 boats contaminated with invasive mussels. Experts estimate that if mussels were to establish in Lake McGregor, the damages could reach $284 million annually. In the Great Lakes region, zebra mussels already cost up to $500 million a year.Megan Evans of the Alberta Invasive Species Council said early action is critical. “The actions we take now will determine the future health of our lakes and rivers,” she said.
