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Aquatic Invasive Species
How You Can Help Stop Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)
Water-users and aquatic hobbyists play an important role in protecting Manitoba's water bodies and valuable aquatic resources from the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as Zebra Mussels and Spiny Waterflea. You can help stop AIS by learning about:
- the Manitoba government’s AIS Regulation and how they pertain to:
- the open-water and the winter (ice-covered) seasons
- watercraft (e.g., canoes, sailboats, Jet Skis®, power boats, paddle boards)
- water-related equipment (i.e., equipment that comes into contact with water)
- water-related aircraft (e.g., float planes)
- removing Zebra Mussels from a shoreline, such as in front of your cabin. To do so legally, a permit is required from the Manitoba government. Learn more here.
- AIS Control Zones , and their:
- locations (map)
- decontamination requirements
- bait requirements
- the locations and operating times of the open-water season Watercraft Inspection program.
- if you cannot remove an AIS before leaving the shore, you may require a Transportation Authorization when removing your watercraft and water-related equipment from the water body.
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)’s Import Prohibitions and Requirements for Commercial Importers of Aquatic Species and for Travellers Under the (Federal) Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations.
In summary, to enter Canada: - watercraft, water-related equipment and water-related aircraft must be:
- cleaned of aquatic plants, animals, mud and debris
- drained of water
- dry
- you may not possess:
- Zebra Mussels
- Quagga Mussels (redirect to Fisheries and Oceans Canada)
- Bighead Carp
- Silver Carp
- Black Carp
- Grass Carp
For more information on these invasive Xenocarps, click here to be taken to Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
- The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) updated requirements for importing invertebrates (i.e., earthworms) into Canada. This includes personal use such as recreational angling. For more information, click here.
Aquatic hobbyists, do not release any aquarium or water garden plants, animals or water into any Manitoba water body or into any storm sewer. Learn more about the Don’t Let it Loose program by clicking here to be redirected to Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Report new AIS sightings to the toll free, aquatic invasive species hotline at 1-87-STOP AIS-0 (1-877-867-2470) or online here.
- Note the exact location and date of the sighting.
- Take several pictures of the specimen. The pictures will be used to help with identification.