SASKATOON – The threat of invasive species is concerning for a group that works to protect the water quality and quantity of Lake Diefenbaker. The South Saskatchewan River watershed stewards (SSRWSI) will be discussing the threat zebra and quagga mussels pose when they hold an open house on Tuesday in Outlook.
“The Ministry of Environment has identified Lake Diefenbaker as high risk to invasion by zebra and quagga mussels,” says Renny Grilz, who is the acting watershed coordinator with the organization.
Zebra and quagga mussels have spread throughout eastern Canada and the Colorado River system in the United States. Zebra mussels were found in Lake Winnipeg in 2013.
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SSRWSI says there would be a tremendous impact on the province if the mussels were to invade Saskatchewan waters and affect irrigation, hydro-electric power, tourism and recreation, and municipal water systems.
Once introduced, it is virtually impossible to eradicate the mussels.
Although an analysis has not yet been done for Saskatchewan, the group’s March 2015 newsletter says it could cost the province and municipalities between $15- and $30-million yearly in maintenance costs alone.
The SSRWSI, other watershed groups in the province, and other groups and agencies in the province are working to develop a monitoring and awareness program which is expected to be released this year.
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Under provincial regulations, it is illegal to import, possess, transport, or sell aquatic invasive species that are considered to be a significant risk to Saskatchewan waters.
Also during the SSRWSI’s open house, there will be a presentation on the status of the reservoir management plan for the lake, an update on the M1 canal redevelopment and efforts to protect the endangered piping plover along the shores of Lake Diefenbaker.
The open house gets underway Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Outlook Heritage Centre.
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