When staff at B.C.’s Invasive Mussel Defence Program were notified that a high-risk watercraft heading for the Lower Mainland appeared to be covered in invasive zebra mussels, inspectors with the Conservation Officer Service (COS) immediately took action.

The BC Parks Licence Plate Program is marking its five-year anniversary, and more than 300 diverse projects and programs have been supported to further protect and enhance B.C.’s world-renowned parks system.

Inspection stations are now open throughout the province to prevent harmful zebra and quagga mussels from hitching a ride on boats and entering B.C. waterways.

Nearly 3,000 moss balls, which are suspected or confirmed to be contaminated with zebra mussels, have been seized or surrendered to conservation officers as part of widespread efforts to stop the potential spread of the invasive species.

More than 60 projects dedicated to restoring diverse ecosystems and conserving fish, wildlife and habitat are planned or underway throughout B.C.

To prevent gypsy moth populations from becoming established and to minimize the risk they pose to forests, farms, orchards and trees, the B.C. government plans to conduct aerial-spray treatments in the Courtenay area in spring 2021. 

Young adults interested in working outdoors this summer and playing a key role in environmental stewardship can now apply for the BC Parks Student Ranger Program.