Parks Canada will maintain watercraft restrictions in Waterton Lakes National Park through 2025 to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) and protect the park’s ecosystem.
The measures, which were first introduced in 2024, will continue to limit access for non-motorized watercraft from outside the park while requiring mandatory inspections and training for permitted vessels.
According to Lethbridge News Now on March 12, Parks Canada cited the ongoing threat of invasive mussels and whirling disease as key reasons for extending the restrictions. These species can cause significant environmental and economic damage, impacting native fish populations and water quality in the park’s waterways.
Under the restrictions, non-motorized watercraft that originate outside the park will remain prohibited. This policy, introduced last year, has been credited with reducing AIS risks and will continue as a preventive measure.
For those with non-motorized watercraft stored within the park, seasonal permits will remain available. These permits require the completion of AIS training and a thorough inspection process to ensure compliance with conservation efforts.
Motorized boats will still be subject to a 90-day quarantine before being allowed into park waters. Parks Canada stated that this program has been effective in preventing the introduction of invasive species and will continue to be enforced throughout 2025.
Fishing regulations in Waterton Lakes National Park will also remain in place. While fishing is permitted in Cameron Creek and the Waterton River, the Belly River remains closed due to the presence of whirling disease.
The restrictions align with broader conservation efforts across Canada’s national parks, where invasive species have been identified as a growing concern.