June 8, 2022 – Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) in partnership with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH), is hosting a number of Clean, Drain, Dry Days at Island Lake Conservation Area to educate boaters about the new provincial boat washing regulation to prevent the transport of invasive species between waterways. On June 11 from 5 a.m. to noon and June 22 from noon until 7 p.m., boaters will have the opportunity to speak with staff to learn about the regulation and access a free mobile boat washing station to clean their boat before and after entering the water.
“It’s important to clean, drain and dry your boat to prevent the spread of invasive species entering Island Lake and other waterbodies,” said Jon Clayton, Aquatic Ecologist, Natural Heritage Management at CVC. “Island Lake is already home to a number of introduced aquatic species, such as common carp. By actively taking steps to prevent the spread of more aquatic invasive species, we can reduce the impacts of invasives on the habitat, water quality and fish species in the reservoir. Together, we can keep Island Lake enjoyable for boating and fishing and maintain the vibrant ecosystem.”
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources, and Forestry (NDMNRF) has regulated watercrafts including boats, canoes, and kayaks and watercraft equipment as carriers for invasive species under Ontario’s Invasive Species Act. The regulation came into effect January 1, 2022.
Visitors to Island Lake may experience short delays at the boat launch on event days. More events will be scheduled over the summer, visit cvc.ca/events for more information.
Clean, Drain, Dry Days are a pilot project to inform a more permanent boat washing station at Island Lake CA. CVC is committed to invasive species prevention and management in the Credit River Watershed. Learn more about CVC’s 10-year plan in the Invasive Species Strategy.
Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) is a local conservation authority established by the Ontario government in 1954 to protect, restore and enhance the natural environment of the Credit River Watershed. Our watershed is defined by the area of land where all rainfall, snowmelt and runoff drain into lands and waters flowing into the Credit River. CVC creates connections between people and nature, knowledge and action. We inspire a deep appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. CVC is a member of Conservation Ontario.
Photo: Boat launch at Island Lake Conservation Area
Link: https://files.cvc.ca/cvc/uploads/2022/06/med_BoatLaunchLandscape_ILCA_20220602-003-scaled.jpg
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Kimberley Holt
Associate, Marketing & Communications
Credit Valley Conservation
647-272-5267
[email protected]