Western provinces, territories band together to fight zebra mussels

Western provinces and territories are banding together to try to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Yukon have agreed to co-ordinate efforts to stop species such as zebra mussels from taking hold.

The destructive mussels were discovered for the first time in Manitoba in 2013, which set off alarm bells in other western provinces.

The mussels reproduce quickly and can disrupt the food chain, clog water pipes and create algae.

Manitoba Environment Minister Cathy Cox says the provinces will co-ordinate watercraft inspection stops and share resources if any mussels are found.

She says Manitoba is the aquatic gateway to the West and an important battleground in the fight against the spread of zebra mussels.