Boat Checks Stop Spread

By Corey Fischer

Jul 27, 2018 | 11:01 AM

BC Conservation officers have checked over 14,000 watercraft since April for invasive mussels.

It’s mandatory for people hauling boats into BC to stop at the inspection stations.

Chris Doyle from the BC Conservation Officer Service says inspectors are looking for zebra and quagga mussels which could spread to BC waterways .

“Fifteen boats were found to be fouled with mussels, coming from Ontario, Arizona, Manitoba and Michigan. They were destined for the Lower Mainland, the Okanagan, the Thompson, the Kootenays and Vancouver Island, ” says Doyle.

Officials are trying to stop the spread of the mussels to BC, which could damage water systems and eco-systems and impact tourism.

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A BC tour company is facing charges of illegally attracting dangerous wildlife.

Chris Doyle from the BC Conservation Officer Service says six charges under the BC Wildlife Act have been laid against Blue River Safari.

Doyle says a complaint was launched in 2017, that the company was putting-out food to attract bears.

“Incidents of people feeding bears are few and far between, but its definitely a serious offence. It puts the life of the bear at jeopardy as well as public safety.”

The company operates jet boat and jeep tours for bear and wildlife viewing north of Kamloops.

A campfire ban is now in effect for the Kamloops Fire Centre — and the BC Conservation Services says it will be enforced.

Chris Doyle from the service says officers will be conducting nighttime patrols to ensure compliance around the province.

“Those found contravening the restriction can face an immediate on the spot fine of $1,150. In 2017, 83 charges were laid by conservation officers for Wildfire Act offences.”

The BC Wildfire Service has responded to 810 wildfires so far this fire season, which is close to the average of 762 for this time of year.

Pictured: Chris Doyle, BC Conservation Service

by Corey Fischer