I saw a piece about this on the Weather Network a few days ago. The culprit is a parasite
Myxobolus cerebralis that is already established in some Alberta Lakes. This invasive just adds to the others species of concern that provinces and states have been trying to stop from spreading for more than a decade. We humans carry all kinds of invasives during our wanderings. I have been stopped frequently over the years for quesioning and inspection of my kayaks in Alberta, British Columbian and Washington State. I say wonderful, the more inspections, education, and enforcement the less likely these critters will spread. The thought of
Myxobolus cerebralis, Zebra Muscles, Quaga Muscles and more getting into the Okanagan or Columbia River watersheds, terrifies me. See excerpt from article below"
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Whirling disease, a
non-treatable neurological condition with a fatality rate of up to 90 per cent in juvenile trout, salmon, and whitefish, has been detected in Alberta’s Lake Louise, The Canadian Press (CP)
reports.
Zebra Muscles, Quaga Muscles and more getting into the Okanagan or Columbia River watersheds, terrifies me.
In response, officials have imposed new rules and restrictions and divided water zones in Banff National Park into three sections.
Paddling, large inflatables, and the use of waders or wading boots while fishing are now prohibited in Minnewanka, Bow, and Moraine Lakes.
Bow and Moraine Lakes are now classified as being in "prevention zones," while Lake Minnewanka is in a "special tactics zone."
Meanwhile, Lake Louise is classified as a "water recreation zone", which means visitors are still allowed to enjoy regular water activities, so long as they clean, drain, and dry their equipment prior to use.
People who do not follow the restrictions can be charged up to $25,000 under the
National Parks Act.
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Rick
