Winnipeg, Manitoba - Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), in partnership with the Manitoba government, has completed the second aquatic invasive species (AIS) roadside inspection blitz of the 2026 summer season. The operation took place on Highway 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) near the Manitoba-Ontario border, from June 19 to 21, 2026. These inspections support ongoing efforts to protect freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity by intercepting vehicles transporting watercraft and equipment that may carry aquatic invasive species, including Zebra and Quagga Mussels.
AIS threaten ecosystems, infrastructure, and the economy by reproducing rapidly, disrupting native habitats, damaging water intake systems, and creating costly challenges for industries and local communities.
During the three-day inspection blitz, DFO's AIS Core Program and fishery officers, along with Manitoba conservation officers, patrol officers, and staff from Manitoba's AIS program, stopped and inspected a total of 455 eastbound and westbound vehicles transporting 502 watercraft or related equipment. Of these:
- 382 watercraft were compliant with clean, drain, dry requirements.
- 120 watercraft were not cleaned, drained, or dried and failed the AIS inspection.
- 13 watercraft required decontamination and drivers were provided instructions on how to comply with prevention measures in the future.
- 1 watercraft had visible Zebra Mussels present.
Preventing the introduction and spread of AIS is essential to safeguarding Canada's waterways. Ensuring watercraft and equipment are properly cleaned, drained, and dried before travelling between waterbodies helps prevent AIS from being introduced to, and established in, new bodies of water.
