Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society AGM and
presentation on invasive aquatic species.
Tuesday 4th June, 7:00 pm, Osoyoos United Church.
For more information call Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society Tel: 250-495-3134
What do the snakehead fish, rock snot and milfoil have in common? They are all invasive aquatic species known to occur (or formerly occur) in British Columbia. They are threatening BC’s aquatic and riparian ecosystems, such as streams, lakes and wetlands, and the native wildlife that rely on these environments. Fortunately, we don’t have the snakehead fish or rock snot – an invasive freshwater algae – in the Okanagan. But we do have many other non-native, aggressive aquatic species that have invaded our natural habitats and there’s potential for an onslaught of dozens more, if we fail to take action.
Of immediate concern are two freshwater mussel species, zebra and quagga mussels which occur approximately 600 km away in California. These invertebrates rapidly colonize hard surfaces and can subsequently clog water-intake structures, impact recreation, alter food webs and affect water quality. Invasive mussels can affect entire ecosystems. Recent research has determined there is a high risk of invasive mussels not only surviving in some Okanagan lakes, but there is a high potential for massive infestations. Estimated costs of an Okanagan invasion are $43 million per year.
Learn more about invasive mussels and other aquatic invasive species at the Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society Annual General Meeting at 7:00 PM on June 4 at the Osoyoos United Church. Biologist Lisa Scott will provide information on the program that is happening locally to prevent the spread of mussels into the Okanagan and what you can do to help out. For more information contact 250-495-3134.