B.C. boosts program to keep out invasive mussels that can cling to boats

Mar 31, 2016 | 12:48 AM

KELOWNA, B.C. — British Columbia is adding eight inspection stations at major waterways to prevent the entry of invasive mussels that could threaten salmon populations, infrastructure and drinking water.

Premier Christy Clark says the enhancement follows a pilot project to defend the province from zebra and quagga mussels.

Clark says the mussels have never been detected in B.C. and that the existing program will be boosted with $2 million in funding from BC Hydro, FortisBC, Columbia Power and Columbia Basin Trust.

The small freshwater mussels, which are native to Europe and were introduced into North America in the 1980s, can attach themselves to boat hulls, trailers, equipment and vegetation and are difficult to eradicate.