Grassy Lake Reservoir
What is the issue?
Grassy lake was identified in a recent study as a reservoir that is at heightened risk of zebra and quagga mussel introduction. The SMRID is not closing the reservoir to fishing. However, we are concerned about uncontrolled boat access and would like another organization to come forward to manage and monitor one public boat launch for the reservoir to help mitigate the risk.
What is being done elsewhere in SMRID and why is Grassy being closed?
Typically, boat launches are managed by organizations like private campgrounds or local authorities like Counties or MD’s, but this could also be done, alternatively, by a local fish and game club or boating association, etc. Therefore, until further notice SMRID is closing Grassy Lake until an organization comes forward to manage a public boat launch. Note - the official closure was posted asJuly 28but the main boat launch has already been physically closed so it will be difficult to launch any ‘real-sized’ boat, so essentially the reservoir is already closed.
What does SMRID require?
SMRID requires a gated boat launch that is open during posted hours with a monitoring program that is approved by the district and subject to periodic review (but does not necessarily mean continuous monitoring). As a minimum, SMRID shall be informed of high-risk events such as fishing derbies or boating events, basically whenever out of province visitor(s) may be launching boats in the reservoir, to ensure that inspections are carried out during those times and that any out of province boat is inspected and has a sticker prior to entry.
What is the risk if mussels get into our system?
The threat of zebra and quagga mussels is felt to be imminent due to the recent discovery of zebra mussels in Montana in 2016 and Manitoba in 2015. Zebra mussels would destroy the walleye and whitefish fisheries at district reservoirs and potentially cause millions of dollars of maintenance to control mussels at any continuously submerged inlet, as is the case at most pipeline inlets in any reservoir. The types and volumes of aquatic weeds are anticipated to change, which may exacerbate the fouling of inlets.