clean water

Helping you protect waterways from invasive fish species

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Craig Mushens | Manager Aquatic Sciences; Senior Fish Biologist, Calgary | 10 June 2020

There are more than 50 goldfish populations and other invasive fish species living throughout waterbodies in the province of Alberta. Learn how Advisian can work with you to protect our rivers and streams.

It’s a common pet. It’s a cheesy cracker. But, more importantly, it’s an invasive species that’s a serious challenge within our waterways. 

There are more than 50 goldfish populations living throughout waterbodies in the province of Alberta. Other invasive species, such as black bullhead and rosy-red minnows have also been found in its ponds.

Because they help reduce sediment input from urban runoff into natural waters, stormwater retention ponds are a common feature integrated into residential park settings. But they’re also high-quality habitat for goldfish, which can become a source of invasion to surrounding natural waterbodies. 

In accordance with the Alberta Invasive Species Regulations, facility owners and municipalities are responsible for preventing the release of invasive species from managed ponds into a waterbody. 

Effective eradication of invasive fish requires the application of Rotenone, a naturally-derived piscicide. Its application requires specialized training, approvals, and controls to protect the external aquatic environment. Advisian has provided this service to four municipalities in south-central Alberta, removing tens of thousands of goldfish and protecting our native waters. 

For more information, please contact Craig Mushens.

Remember:

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Goldfish eradication from stormwater ponds using Rotenone

Stormwater retention ponds are a common feature to reduce sediment input from urban runoff into natural waters. However, these ponds provide high quality habitat for goldfish (Carassius auratus), and can be a source of invasion to surrounding waterbodies, particularly when populations become well-established. Learn how we can work with you to protect our rivers and streams from invasive fish species. 

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goldfish eradication information