M.D. reviews support of implementing boat dip tank technology and aquatic invasive species prevention

By Heather Cameron
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

During a recent M.D. of Taber Council meeting, Council reviewed a letter from Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Rebecca Schulz in response to correspondence that the M.D. of Taber had sent to show their support of implementing boat dip tank technology and aquatic invasive species (AIS) prevention.

“I appreciate the Municipal District of Taber’s support and recognition of Alberta’s commitment to protecting our many water bodies and waterways across the province from aquatic invasive species,” said Minister Schulz. 

In her response to the M.D. of Taber, Minister Schulz explained that Alberta continues to lead Canada’s fight against invasive species. 

“We have some of the highest commitments to inspection and decontamination stations, training standards, and programing, as well as the highest fines in Canada for non-compliance,” said Minister Schulz’s letter. “The 2025 open water season will see the largest array of watercraft inspectors and the most watercraft inspection stations in Alberta history. These additional stations and inspectors will strengthen our defences against invasive species at key entry points and travel thoroughfares across the province. We are also working to carry out the recommendations from the Provincial AIS Task Force. This includes exploring a partnership to run the dip tank pilot program which we hope to have more to share on soon. The success of the AIS programs is important for the protection of Alberta waters and is thanks, in part, to the support of key partners like you and your council.”

M.D. of Taber Reeve Tamara Miyanaga stated that the M.D. appreciated receiving the letter from Minister Schulz since there has been a change as far as boats and any watercraft coming into the province from the east and the south.

“I think there will be continued efforts in this, so I am glad to see that the province is keeping it front of mind,” said Reeve Miyanaga.