Inspectors work to inspect and decontaminate a watercraft.
Albertans who use boats, jet skies, canoes, kayaks and other watcrcraft have until Aug. 25 to comment on the government’s plans for an annual pass.
The government is considering implementing an annual pass as part of ongoing efforts to protect Alberta from Zebra and Quagga mussels, which can cause millions in damage, threaten water systems, damage environments and put recreational opportunities at risk.
“We look forward to getting feedback from Albertans on an annual boat pass that will be used in our efforts to prevent aquatic invasive species from wreaking havoc on our provincial waterways,” said Grant Hunter, associate minister of water and chair of the Provincial Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force. “Albertans love the great outdoors, and we all need to work together to keep these invasive species out.”
The on-line survey at https://www.alberta.ca/aquatic-invasive-species-annual-watercraft-pass-engagement provides boat owners and others the opportunity to give feedback on how much a pass should cost and how it could be applied, such as one pass per watercraft or one pass per operator.
At present, Alberta is free of Zebra and Quagga mussels, but the risk is growing across North America.
With more than 600 lakes and countless rivers and streams there are many chances for tiny invaders to get established.
Rvenue from a watercraft pass would be used to increase invasive species defences.
Alberta implemented mandatory watercraft inspections in 2025 for every boat, whether powered or paddled, entering the province from high-risk east and south borders.
The province is investing $18 million over five years, opening more watercraft inspection stations with increased staff and longer operating hours, hiring more K-9 detection teams and buying more decontamination equipment to keep invasive mussels out.
In 2024, 13,408 watercraft inspections were completed — the most since 2019 — and 15 watercrafts were confirmed positive for invasive mussels.
“Preventing aquatic invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels from entering Alberta is far easier and more cost-effective than trying to manage them after they arrive,” said Megan Evans, executive director of the Alberta Invasive Species Council.
“Once established, these species permanently alter ecosystems and place a massive burden on infrastructure and recreation. We’re encouraged to see Alberta exploring new prevention strategies, and we urge all Albertans to take this opportunity to provide input. The actions we take now will determine the future health of our lakes and rivers.”
