Half of stopped vehicles for aquatic invasive species failed inspection

Half of the vehicles stopped as part of a zebra mussel inspection blitz last month failed, according to officials.

Half of the vehicles stopped as part of an inspection blitz against aquatic invasive species failed, Fisheries and Oceans Canada says.

Between May 29 and 31, provincial and federal officials performed the roadside inspection on Highway 1 near the Manitoba-Ontario border.

A total of 136 vehicles carrying 167 watercraft were stopped and 99 of the watercraft were compliant.

Sixty-eight watercraft were not properly cleaned, drained or dried – failing the inspection, according to a media release.

Fourteen required decontamination and drivers were provided with instructions on how to comply with future prevention measures. One watercraft had visible zebra mussels.

The federal department said anyone who violates legislation related to aquatic invasive species can face steep fines under provincial legislation – in addition to federal fines. The maximum fine for a first offence under the federal law is $100,000.