Residents are being urged to make a splash and join the fight against invasive mussels.
A splash mob is being organized by Protect Our Freshwater and the Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake July 24 at 10 a.m. at Kal Beach.
“The goal of this circle flotilla is to draw widespread attention to the threat these invasive mussels pose to our freshwater,” said Brynne Morrice, with Protect Our Freshwater and producer of the film Mussel Threat: Protecting B.C.’s Freshwater.
Quagga and zebra mussels can clog pipes, cause ecological and economic damage, displace native aquatic plants and wildlife, degrade the environment and affect drinking water quality.
Morrice says there is a need for the public to apply pressure to the provincial government to expand its invasive species efforts beyond eight boat inspection stations.
“The inspectors are only on the road for eight to 10 hours per day. So, if a boat comes through in the early morning or in the evening, it’s not going to get checked,” he said.
Morrice says there is also a concern that border guards are not always inspecting boats at federal border crossings.
“We need more action from the federal and provincial governments, and we need people far and wide to be aware of this threat and take appropriate action with their boats.”
The splash mob will see participants form a circle in the water.
“In the centre of the circle will be a floating sign, with a yet unconfirmed slogan, and all of it will be filmed from above by a professional team of cinematographers flying a commercial drone,” said Morrice.
To register for the splash mob or for more information, go to www.protectourfreshwater.ca/splashmob