Photo: Sea lamprey
World Water Day is celebrated annually in March.
Lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands in Canada hold 20% of the world’s freshwater. However, invasive fish and aquatic plants – including Asian carp, zebra mussels, sea lamprey, and Eurasian watermilfoil – pose a significant threat to these water bodies. They can outcompete native species, damage ecosystems, reduce critical habitat and water quality, have a cascading effect on biodiversity, and have significant economic impacts on fishing, forestry, agriculture, and many recreational activities.
“World Water Day is an opportunity to learn how to prevent the spread of invasive species. We encourage everyone to participate and help protect waters in Canada,” says Sarah Rang, Executive Director at the Invasive Species Centre.
Here are 5 ways that everyone can help prevent the spread of invasive species and protect waterways in Canada:
- Learn more about aquatic invasive species! Browse our species profiles and visit our YouTube channel to learn more about the impacts of aquatic invasive species and how you can protect waters in Canada.
- Detect and report suspected invasive species sightings to EDDMapS or the Invasive Species Hotline (1-800-563-7711). Early detection and response are important to successfully manage an invasive species.
- Clean, Drain, and Dry boats and gear when moving or hauling a boat over land. Some aquatic invasive species can stick to boat trailers, motors, or equipment, or survive in bait buckets, live wells, and bilges of ships and boats. Also, know before you go. Most provinces require watercraft and hauling gear to be clear of aquatic invasive species when transporting. Do your part to protect waters in Canada and know the rules and regulations for provinces you are travelling from, to, and through.
- Don’t let it loose! Domestic pets like fishes, invertebrates, aquatic plants, reptiles, and amphibians can become invasive when released into natural environments. Live bait releases, e-commerce (the ability to easily buy and sell live organisms online), water gardens, sportfish release, and live food release can be pathways of invasive species spread. Learn more about safe pet planning and disposal practices.
- Become a community scientist today by participating in a community science initiative.
The Invasive Species Centre invites you to celebrate World Water Day by helping to manage and prevent invasive species in your community and beyond. Together, we can be the change and protect the earth’s freshwater ecosystems.
