New dogs join Alberta’s fight against mussels

“Thank you to Jane and Winnie for joining Hilo to help protect Alberta from aquatic invasive species,” exclaimed Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. “Together, we’re strengthening Alberta’s national leadership in prevention and safeguarding our lakes, rivers and streams for future generations.”

Provincial officials say protecting Alberta’s waters starts with preventing the spread of invasive mussels. They point out, the destructive species can threaten aquatic ecosystems, damage infrastructure and create major economic impacts.

Officials say a single watercraft carrying invasive mussels can put an entire waterbody at risk, making early detection and prevention essential to protecting Alberta’s environment and economy.

“The best way to stop invasive mussels is to prevent them from arriving in the first place,” adds Megan Evans, executive director, Alberta Invasive Species Council. “These conservation dogs are another incredible tool helping Alberta protect our lakes, rivers, and water infrastructure before irreversible damage occurs.”

Meet the dogs

Government officials say Alberta’s Conservation K-9 teams underwent extensive training in the United States over the last few months, where they learned to identify all three known species of invasive freshwater mussels present in North America.

Hilo

Hilo is described as Alberta’s veteran Conservation K-9 and has spent more than a decade protecting the province’s ecosystems. Officials say he is very excited to have two new teammates to mentor and has already begun showing them all the excitement a career protecting the environment has to offer. While on shift, Hilo is very methodical and careful, which is quite at odds with his joyful and fun-loving personality when he’s off the clock, officials point out. The government says Hilo is a great ambassador for the program, happily showing off his sniffing skills for anyone who wants to watch.

See Hilo’s picture

Jane

Jane is a black Labrador retriever who has found her true calling in environmental protection. Officials say she has a keen ability to work through distractions, remaining engaged with her task above all else. When she isn’t on the clock protecting Alberta’s ecosystems, she is said to be incredibly eager for new squeaky toys and loves nothing more than a good game of fetch with her favorite ball.

See Jane’s picture

Winnie

Winnie is originally from Kansas, where she was found in a shelter as a puppy. Officials say her charm and work ethic were immediately recognized for a potential career as a working dog. Winnie is described as very friendly and is always excited to meet new people. Energetic and highly motivated, Winnie is happiest with a toy in her mouth and with humans nearby to praise her fine detection skills.

See Winnie’s picture

“The Conservation K-9 Program plays a critical role in safeguarding Alberta’s lakes, reservoirs and irrigation systems from invasive zebra, quagga, and golden mussels. We applaud the provincial government for its continued commitment to preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species,” shares Margo Jarvis Redelback, executive director, Alberta Irrigation Districts Association.

The government says its taking a comprehensive approach to preventing invasive mussels and other aquatic invasive species from entering the province. Conservation K-9s are described as one important tool, alongside a record 12 watercraft inspection stations operating this year, whats said to be the most ever delivered through the program.

All motorized and non-motorized watercraft entering Alberta are required to undergo inspection, with some of the highest penalties in North America helping reinforce compliance and protect the province’s waters.

The government says protecting provincial waterbodies protects Alberta’s ecosystems, infrastructure and economy, helping safeguard agriculture, wildlife, recreation and the communities that depend on healthy waterways.

Alberta government quick facts:

So far in 2026, Alberta has intercepted six watercraft carrying invasive mussels attempting to enter Alberta.
From May 1 until Sept. 30, mandatory inspections are in effect for anyone entering Alberta with watercraft across the eastern and southern provincial borders. If the closest inspection station is closed, Albertans and visitors must get their watercraft inspected within seven days and before launching into Alberta’s waters.
Alberta’s fines are the highest in North America:
- $4,200 for failing to stop at an open inspection station.
- $600 for failing to remove a drain plug when transporting a watercraft within Alberta.
In 2025, 21,995 boats were inspected, over 8,495 more than during 2024.
- 13 watercraft carrying invasive mussels attempted to enter Alberta.
- Contaminated watercraft all entered from the eastern provinces in Canada or the United States.

by rdnewsNOW Staff