90-day quarantine program for motorized and trailered boats

Background

In early 2017, Parks Canada prohibited all recreational power boats and trailer launched watercraft from entering waters in Waterton Lakes National Park to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive mussels.

This decision was triggered by the discovery of invasive mussels in the Tiber Reservoir in Montana, a half-day’s drive from Waterton.

The Clean Lake Initiative (CLI), a committee of the Improvement District #4 council, began researching options on how to safely return recreational power boating to the park. The CLI has developed a plan that meets the standards set out by Parks Canada. The proposed approach appropriately mitigates the risk of invasive mussels contaminating Waterton Lakes National Park.

Parks Canada continues to take the threat of invasive mussels very seriously. A 90-day quarantine is longer than most current sealing programs and is considered sufficient to eliminate any chance of live mussels being introduced to Upper or Middle Waterton Lake.

For more information on this program or to book a sealing appointment, contact the Clean Lake Initiative.

Under the Canada National Parks Act the maximum penalty for a launching a prohibited boat in the park is $25,000.

Taking action against invasive mussels

Once invasive mussels are introduced, they are impossible to eradicate and their effects are irreversible. By working together we can help protect our waters.

Preventing invasive mussels from entering Waterton Lakes National Park is our top priority. The Improvement District #4 developed the sealing and quarantine program was developed with this in mind.

Parks Canada reminds visitors to Clean, Drain, Dry their watercraft and gear after every trip.

Related links and resources

Follow these links to find out more information about boating in Waterton Lakes National Park, invasive mussels and aquatic invasive species prevention:

• Frequently asked questions
• Water activities
• Boat permit regulations
• Alberta Environment and Parks: Aquatic invasive species
• Alberta Environment and Parks: Clean drain dry your boat
• Crown Managers Partnership: Aquatic invasive species