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PNWER delegates pushing for greater efforts to prevent the spread of freshwater invasive mussels into the region.
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 | | Kate Wilson presents on the threat of quagga and zebra mussels to the region |
Thanks hugely to the efforts to Kate Wilson, Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator for the Alberta Environment and Sustainable Development Department, PNWER held a session on aquatic invasive species, specifically the threat of zebra and quagga mussels, during the 2013 Economic Leadership Forum in Banff, Alberta on November 15.
Prompted by the recent reports of adult zebra mussels in Lake Winnipeg, the session focused on the next steps needed by the PNWER Canadian provinces and territories to help build a regional protection plan. Calling on the provinces to implement mandatory inspection stations, contact Manitoba about setting up a quarantine zone around Lake Winnipeg, and work with the Canadian federal government were all actions identified by the working group participants. [Click here to view full action items]
Looking at the upcoming legislative sessions in the U.S., participants emphasized the need to increase education in each of their jurisdictions. Calling for a mix of education materials for boaters and other waterways users, and for presentations to use when speaking with fellow business leaders and legislators, the group asked for an increase in outreach throughout the region. [Click here for the full meeting proceedings].
We would like to thank Kate Wilson [Click here for her presentation] for her incredible efforts putting this session together. Additionally, a huge thanks to our working group co-chair Rep. Eric Anderson, Idaho, and to Ms. Alana DeLong, MLA, Alberta who stepped up to support this session in Banff.
The PNWER invasive species working group next plans to meeting in Whistler, British Columbia in July. In January the next working group call will be held to address the outstanding action items from this and the July 2013 event. To join the working group, please contact Megan Levy at megan.levy@pnwer.org.
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Gov. Otter Talks Mussels with Sec. Jewell
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During the Western Governor's Association Idaho Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter offered Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell a quagga mussel encrusted Idaho license plate that spent a year in Lake Mead, asking when the administration would set up the inspection and decontamination stations around Lake Mead for which funds had been appropriated. Our own executive director provided Gov. Otter with the the prop for this opportunity, and recorded the exchange. More information on the event: http://thebluereview.org/western-governors-association-policy/
 | | Gov. Otter and Sec. Jewell discuss the western states' concerns about zebra and quagga mussels. |
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