City hall issues alert about invasive species
Zebra mussels expected to infest Fredericton waters after recent detection in Mactaquac
The City of Fredericton is expecting an invasive freshwater mollusk to make its way to capital waters, and it’s setting out to warn the public of the risks it presents and to curb its spread.
In a news release issued Thursday, city hall launched a response plan to address the expected arrival of Zebra mussels in waters around the city.
“An adult Zebra Mussel, a highly invasive freshwater species that attaches to hard surfaces, was confirmed in the Mactaquac Headpond in December 2024, and experts expect they will soon reach Fredericton,” the release said.
It said the mollusk’s spread can’t be prevented altogether, the municipality is aiming to educate the public and take measures to limit the destructive effects of the invasive species.
“Our focus is on prevention and preparedness,” Coun. Kevin Darrah, chairman of the city’s environmental stewardship committee, said in the release.
“We’re committed to protecting our infrastructure, the natural environment and recreational spaces while keeping the public informed and engaged as the situation evolves.”
Zebra mussels have disrupted local ecosystems elsewhere, outcompete native species and have caused damage to infrastructure.
“In Fredericton, they pose risks to stormwater outflows, wastewater treatment plant outfalls, and public-use infrastructure like docks and beaches,” the release said.
“The city’s response is currently focused on two initial stages: public education and inspection of critical infrastructure. Additional mitigation, removal and maintenance activities will follow once adult mussels are confirmed in Fredericton waters.”
The public-education component will include signage, public presentations, brochures and online information, it said.
The city will also establish mobile boat-wash stations at boating events, and training summer staff on how to monitor for Zebra mussels.
City hall will also hold invasive-species working group meetings regularly to manage implementation of education and mitigation efforts, the release said.
As part of the effort to protect municipal resources, city staff will also monitor in-river pipes for early signs of colonization on a routine basis, conduct risk assessments to identify and prioritize at-risk infrastructure, and establish inspection and maintenance schedules, it said.
“Our goal is to stay ahead of this issue,” environmental strategist and program manager Jillian Hudgins said in the release.
“By investing in early action, we can reduce long-term costs and maintain the integrity of our recreational spaces and infrastructure.”
The city collaborated with the New Brunswick Invasive Species Council, the provincial government and the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans in the development of the plan.
The Fredericton Independent can be reached at ftonindependent@gmail.com.