Invasive mussels stopped from entering the Okanagan

March 20, 2014

Vernon Morning Star – March 20, 2014

The Okanagan escaped a close call with an invasive species that has devastated ecosystems across North America.

On March 12, a Canada Customs official at the Osoyoos border crossing stopped a vehicle pulling a boat from Texas. It was headed for moorage in Okanagan Lake and it was infested with what was believed to be zebra or quagga mussels.

“It’s because of the awareness raised by the Okanagan Basin Water Board that the customs officer acted,” said Juliette Cunningham, an OBWB director.

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 Also published on March 20, 2014:

Keremeos Review
“Breaking News – Quagga Mussel Scare

Vancouver Sun
“Okanagan waterways spared devastating mussel infestation thanks to one careful look”

CBC – Daybreak South
“Agents catch Zebra mussels at Osoyoos border”

Global News
“Mussels almost make their way into Okanagan Lake”

Castanet
“Infested ‘mussel’ boat”