Whirling Disease has been detected in Kootenay Lake, and we need your help to protect fish populations and preserve the health of our waterways. Whether you’re boating, paddling, fishing, or swimming, following decontamination protocols is essential to stop the spread of this harmful disease.
What is Whirling Disease?
Whirling Disease is caused by a microscopic parasite that primarily affects trout and salmon species. It damages the cartilage in young fish, causing abnormal swimming patterns (whirling), severe deformities, and often death. The disease’s impact extends beyond fish populations, threatening biodiversity, recreational fishing, and local economies dependent on healthy waterways.
Why Should You Decontaminate?
The Columbia River Watershed, which includes Kootenay Lake, is considered a high-risk area due to its connectivity to upstream regions where Whirling Disease has been detected. Spores from the parasite can cling to watercraft, gear, and other equipment, potentially spreading the disease to new areas. By decontaminating your equipment every time you leave Kootenay Lake, you play a critical role in containing the disease and protecting our aquatic ecosystems.
Decontamination Protocol: Protecting Lakes Step by Step
- Start with Clean, Drain, Dry
Before applying any disinfectant, ensure your watercraft and gear are free from organic material:
- Clean: Remove all mud, plants, and debris from your boat, paddles, fishing gear, and footwear.
- Drain: Empty all water from bilges, live wells, and other compartments.
- Dry: Let everything dry thoroughly, ideally for 24 hours.
- Decontaminate Properly
Follow these steps to safely disinfect your watercraft and equipment:
- Choose a Disinfectant: Use household bleach (diluted as per instructions found here) or Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) like Quat Plus. Always review the product’s safety guidelines and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Remove Organic Material: Organic debris can render disinfectants ineffective. Ensure all surfaces are clean before applying disinfectant.
- Submersible Items:
- Immerse in a disinfectant solution for 10 minutes using a rigid rubber tote or similar container.
- Non-Submersible Items:
- Spray or wipe items thoroughly with disinfectant, keeping surfaces damp for at least 10 minutes.
- Use a pump-style sprayer for larger items like boats and life jackets.
- Protect non-waterproof electronics from exposure.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After disinfecting, rinse all items with clean water (not from the waterbody) to prevent residue buildup.
- Dry: Allow items to air dry for a minimum of 24 hours.
- Dispose of Disinfectant Safely
Never dispose of disinfectants directly into the environment. Small amounts can be diluted and poured into a sanitary sewer with approval from local authorities. Dispose of any used materials, such as towels, in the garbage far from water sources.
For a more detailed description of the Decontamination Protocol, including responsible disposal please refer to this document.
Be a Steward of the Columbia River Watershed
Decontamination may require extra effort, but it’s a small price to pay to protect our lakes and rivers. Together, we can minimize the spread of Whirling Disease and safeguard the fish and ecosystems we cherish.
For more information and resources click here.
Thank you for doing your part to protect Kootenay Lake and beyond!