
The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and soon it will be time to hit the lake. If you're going to be visiting one of the more than 100,000 waterbodies in the province this year, please make sure you are not bringing along any unexpected visitors.
During Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week, which runs from May 9-13, Saskatchewan residents and visitors are reminded to take the necessary steps to ensure aquatic invasive species (AIS) are not introduced to the waters in our province. These plants, fish and invertebrates can damage aquatic habitat and fisheries, as well as power generation and water infrastructure. Once established, aquatic invasive species can be impossible to eliminate, and cost millions of dollars to manage each year.
"Saskatchewan has some of the world's best lakes and rivers, many of which we rely on for a variety of purposes, including drinking water, fishing, recreation, power production and agriculture," Environment Minister Warren Kaeding said. "It is our responsibility to protect these vast freshwater resources from the damaging impact of aquatic invasive species, ensuring their viability and existence for years to come."