Our Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) water sampling for this year has come to an end. This year, we sampled 47 waterbodies in Saskatchewan. Samples have been sent for analysis to determine the absence or presence of invasive mussels. We will be sure to share results with our subscribers and followers when available.
2022 Sampled Waterbodies
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Did you know?
Female Zebra and Quagga Mussels can release up to one million eggs each breeding season!
Protecting Saskatchewan waters from aquatic invasive species starts with you! Here are some ways you can help:
- Clean, drain, dry your boat and anything that has come into contact with the water before transport
- Participate in Saskatchewan’s Adult Invasive Mussel Monitoring (AIMM) Program
- Don’t release aquarium/garden pond friends into rivers, lakes, ponds, or storm drains. Learn what to do instead.
- Call the TIP line 1 (800) 667-7561 if you identify any aquatic invasive species
- Learn about aquatic invasive species and how to identify them. Check out the Government of Saskatchewan Aquatic Invasive Species Fact Sheets and Meet the Species from Invasive Species Centre
Monitoring our waterbodies for unwanted aquatic invasive mussels is important for early detection across many lakes in Saskatchewan. Our sampling efforts aid in monitoring for mussel veliger and mussel eDNA. All organisms leave traces of DNA in their environment. This DNA can be extracted from the environment and used to identify the organism that left it behind. This is called eDNA or Environmental DNA. This technology is extremely helpful for the early detection of invasive mussels. Select lakes around Saskatchewan are being tested using this technology.
Veliger
a free-floating immature mussel or mussel larva
They can be transported in undrained water found in watercraft, motors, bait buckets, etc.
This monitoring program is possible thanks to the generous support of the Government of Saskatchewan Fish and Wildlife Development Fund, the Water Security Agency, Mosaic, and Invasive Species Centre.
