Transport of invasive species is illegal in BC. Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants, animals and parasites that can cause economic or environmental harm and spread quickly to other areas. They can be introduced by hitching a ride on boat hulls, buoys, ropes, anchors, trailers, and fishing gear. Some AIS are microscopic and can be transported in water (i.e. ballasts, bilges, buckets, and wells). They are also introduced by anglers stocking non-native game fish, and pet owners who dump unwanted aquariums.
Help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species
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- Clean all plant parts, animals, debris and mud from your boat, trailer and equipment (fishing gear, ropes, anchors, buoys) before moving to a new waterbody.
- Dispose of removed material on land in an appropriate compost or bin.
- Drain all items that can hold water (e.g. buckets, wells, bilge and ballast) on land, before moving to a new location.
- Dry all parts of your boat, trailer and gear completely, and pull the plug when storing or transporting your watercraft.
- Play, Clean, Go! Give invasive species the brush off after an adventure on land. Make sure to check for invasive plants or animals trying to hitch a ride on you, your pets, or your gear.
- Don’t let it loose! It is illegal to transport and release invasive species in BC. Never release your pets into the wild or dump aquariums into waterbodies or storm sewers.
- Stop for inspection! It’s the law! All watercraft must report to designated watercraft inspection stations in BC.
- Report invasive species to the Province of BC, including via the Invasives BC app.