O.F.A.H. tackles the question: How will the North protect its lakes from alien invaders?

OFAH File: 842
April 13, 2006

For Immediate Release

O.F.A.H. tackles the question:
How will the North protect its lakes from alien invaders?

Conservation workshops presented by the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and its member clubs are tackling an all important question: How can northwestern Ontario residents protect their lakes from alien invaders?

Francine MacDonald, spokesperson for the O.F.A.H./ M.N.R. Invading Species Awareness Program, said “Aquatic invaders pose an enormous threat to the health of Ontario’s inland lakes, and many of the invaders which have wreaked havoc on lakes in southern Ontario are moving northwards.” Eurasian ruffe and zebra mussel are already established in Thunder Bay, spiny water flea was recently discovered in lakes within Quetico Provincial Park, rusty crayfish in Lake of the Woods, and other invaders like the round goby are on the cusp of invading the region. Public awareness and education focused particularly on recreational boaters, anglers, cottagers and other outdoor enthusiasts are critical to preventing the invasion of these species to northwestern Ontario’s inland lakes. At the information sessions, we discussed the current invasive threats and work with attendees from local conservation clubs, bait retailers, marina operators, resort outfitters etc. to come up with practical ideas and solutions to help stop the invasion.

Here at the locations that the O.F.A.H. Invasive Species Information sessions were held:

• April 10-Atikokan Sportsmen’s Conservation Club
• April 11 Fort Frances, La Place Rendez-Vous
• April 12 Kenora, Best Western Lakeside Inn
• April 13 Dryden, Best Western Motor Inn

These workshops are proudly hosted by: Atikokan Sportsmen’s Conservation Club; Fort Frances Sportsmen’s Club, Sportsmen’s Conservation Club of Kenora and the Dryden District Conservation Club.

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