This summer, the District of Sicamous will share important information to help prevent the spread of invasive quagga, zebra and golden mussels.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to take simple steps to protect our lakes, water infrastructure, local economy and community. By working together, we can help keep Sicamous’ lakes healthy for the future.
Invasive mussels have not been detected in British Columbia. Once introduced, they are extremely difficult to remove. Prevention is key to protecting our aquatic ecosystems and preserving the lakes that shape our community.
The Impact of Invasive Mussels
If established, invasive mussels can:
- Clog pipes, water intake systems and municipal water supplies
- Damage boats, docks and marinas
- Harm water quality and native fish populations
- Impact beaches, tourism and recreation
If invasive mussels are introduced to British Columbia, the annual cost is estimated to range from $64 million to $129 million. These costs include mitigation for water-related infrastructure, maintenance for boats and marinas, and losses related to tourism and property values.
Identifying Invasive Mussels
Invasive mussels multiply quickly, attach to hard surfaces such as boats, docks and pipes, and spread easily between waterbodies. Zebra, quagga and golden mussels are very different from native mussels, which are much larger, have a different shape and do not attach to hard surfaces.
Zebra and quagga mussels range in size from 1 mm to 3 cm as adults. They have propeller-shaped shells and are brown or cream coloured. Some have striped markings.
Golden mussels have dark brown, yellow or golden exterior colouring. The inside of the shell ranges from purple to white. Golden mussels are typically 2 cm to 3 cm in size but can reach up to 4.5 cm.
How You Can Help
Everyone has a role to play in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. Whether you live here, visit often or are bringing watercraft to Sicamous for the first time, please take the following steps to help protect our lakes.
- Clean: Remove all plants, mud and debris from your watercraft/gear.
- Drain. Empty all water on land, including bilge, ballast, buckets and live wells. Don't forget to pull the plug. All drainage holes, valves or other deices must be left open.
- Dry. Let everything dry completely before entering new waters.
Pull the Plug
In B.C., it is illegal to transport watercraft, water-related equipment or aircraft on land unless all drainage holes, valves or other devices used to drain water are left open or unplugged. This includes boats, kayaks, canoes and paddle boards.
Stop at All Watercraft Inspection Stations
Anyone transporting watercraft, including boats, kayaks, canoes and paddle boards, is required to stop at all watercraft inspection stations. Failure to stop can result in a $690 fine.
Trained Conservation Officers inspect and decontaminate watercraft to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Remind Visitors
A huge part of prevention is reminding visitors to follow best practices. If you have friends or family coming to Sicamous this summer, please remind them to clean, drain and dry their watercraft and equipment, and to stop at inspection stations along their travel route.
Reporting Aquatic Invasive Species
If you find a small mussel that you think could be any of these three invasive species, it is important to take photos if possible and report immediately to the Conservation Officer Services line: 1-877-952-7277.
Small actions make a big difference in protecting Sicamous’ waters and way of life. Thank you for doing your part to help prevent the spread of invasive mussels. Learn more.