This summer, don't move a mussel!
Alberta Municipalities is highly supportive of the Government of Alberta’s ongoing efforts to protect our provincial lakes and waterways, plants, fish and wildlife by stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS).
The provincial government’s Clean Drain Dry program, alongside the Alberta Invasive Species Council’s Protect Our Waters campaign, plays a vitally important role in preventing the spread of harmful organisms such as zebra and quagga mussels, invasive plants, and diseases like whirling disease.
Contaminated boats, gear, or bait buckets can introduce invasive species to Alberta’s lakes and rivers, leading to ecological disruption, costly damage to water infrastructure, and reduced recreation opportunities. Alberta’s lakes and waterways are currently free of invasive mussels. Both programs promote the essential steps of cleaning, draining, and drying all watercraft and equipment between uses to protect this status.
New rules for 2025
As of June 1, 2025, anyone transporting a watercraft of any kind into Alberta from the east (Saskatchewan) or south (across the U.S. border) is now legally required to stop at a watercraft inspection station.
If the nearest inspection station is closed, boaters must actively seek out an open station and have their watercraft inspected within seven days of entering Alberta or before launching -- whichever comes first. This proactive requirement marks a major shift from previous rules, which only required stopping when driving past an open station.
Failure to comply could result in a $4,200 fine. Additionally, all watercraft must have their drain plugs pulled while being transported on Alberta highways – a key measure to prevent waterborne invasive species from hitching a ride. Forgetting to “pull the plug” may result in a $600 fine.
Municipalities can help keep AIS out
Municipalities can play a major role by helping raise awareness of the threats posed by AIS and reinforcing best boating and watercraft transportation practices within their communities. Local governments are encouraged to display signage at boat launches, share educational materials through newsletters or social media, and collaborate with provincial and federal agencies on outreach efforts.
Municipal staff can also lead by example, ensuring public works equipment and any watercraft used for inspections or recreation follow Clean Drain Dry protocols. By promoting responsible watercraft use and public education, municipalities help safeguard Alberta’s lakes and waterways for future generations.
For more information, check out Alberta Environment and Protected Areas’ Clean Drain Dry program and Alberta Invasive Species Councils’ Protect Our Waters campaign.
