A boat washing station in Clear Lake (PARKS CANADA)
The annual zebra mussel prevention program is now up and running for the season in Riding Mountain National Park.
Parks Canada staff will be on the lookout for any invasive species attached to motorboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and inflatables entering RMNP waters.
Mandatory free inspections are available at the Clear Lake boat cove in Wasagaming from May 15 to June 15, Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Summer inspection hours begin on June 16, seven days a week at the Clear Lake Boat Cove from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. East End boat launch inspections begin on June 22, Friday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Existing inspection permits are no longer valid. Re-inspection is required for all watercraft re-entering the park after launching outside of RMNP.
Park Wardens will be monitoring park waters, doing checks to ensure that all boaters and paddlers have received inspections and possess valid permits. Non-compliant operators face a maximum fine of $100,000. To date, Parks Canada in RMNP has issued 19 fines and seized 10 watercraft (motorboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards) for failing to have an inspection done and putting park waters at risk for AIS infestation.
