Preventing and managing aquatic invasive species in the Banff Field Unit

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) pose a threat to Species at Risk (SAR) and ecological integrity (EI). This project aims to prevent the introduction and manage the spread of AIS to protect EI, support SAR recovery, including Westslope Cutthroat Trout and Bull Trout, and protect aquatic ecosystems in the Banff Field Unit. Preventing AIS establishment is the most cost-effective way to protect against AIS, since eradication is expensive and often impossible. The mountain national parks (MNPs) are connected by watersheds and visitor use. The MNP AIS Steering Committee and Working Group were formed with cross-functional representation from Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Jasper, and Waterton Lakes national parks. This will allow the MNPs to leverage shared resources and create a unified and sustainable strategy. Approach: — Implement new watercraft and aquatic related gear Restricted Activity Orders for preventing contaminated vessels from entering park waters. — Open a mandatory motorized watercraft inspection station, staffed by Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Attendants, to operate seasonally. — Offer mandatory AIS Prevention Self-Certification permits for non-motorized watercraft. — Implement a new AIS volunteer program. — Develop an AIS monitoring program with consistent protocols across the MNPs. — Initiate a graduate student research project to help inform AIS prevention strategies. — Develop an Early Detection/Rapid Response (ED/RR) Plan and an Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP) for AIS for Banff Field Unit. — Develop an MNP AIS Strategy including Regional AIS Communications and monitoring protocols.