Most watercraft will be banned from Clear Lake this season as Parks Canada continues to test the water for zebra mussels.
A clump of the invasive species were discovered at the lake in November, leading to water testing over the winter. The testing didn’t detect any zebra mussel DNA, but no chances are being taken.
Parks Canada says motorized boats and human-powered vessels like canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards won’t be allowed on the lake until testing is complete.
“This decision is informed by the best available science and Indigenous Knowledge and provides the best opportunity to battle a likely invasion of zebra mussels,” says a Parks Canada statement released Thursday.
There will be three exceptions to the ban: The Martese commercial tour boat, a vessel from the Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation, and Parks Canada boats and vessels will still be allowed on the water.
Karly McRae, a lifelong Clear Lake user and owner of Lakehouse Properties, a boutique hotel in Wasagaming, says there are major concern over the implications of this move.
“Just the rumour of it has already caused cancellations in our community with local accommodations, local contractors, businesses,” McRae said. “The impact is going to be multi, multi-millions of dollars and is going to be devastating for those of us who have poured our life’s work into this community and into providing jobs for local people.”
The maximum penalty for launching a prohibited watercraft is $25,000, according to Parks Canada.
McRae worries that this will set a precedent for similar situations if they happen.
“What happens when we have a zebra mussel scare at Falcon Lake or Lake of the Woods? Many other tourist destinations like ours depend on the industry for their vitality and livelihood.”
