Invasive Goldfish Found in Pond

Invasive goldfish have been found in the Town's north stormwater pond and the Town is draining the pond in the hope of catching the problem in its early stages. 

The most likely cause of this event is an intentional release of pet fish into the pond. Such behaviour is dangerous to our ecosystem, illegal, and potentially very expensive for the Town.  The pond flows into the Pothole Creek and goldfish as a species are a very rugged and resilient fish. They are known to be capable of out competing native species for resources and surviving Alberta winters. Releasing an invasive species is against the Fisheries (Alberta) Act, carrying penalties of up to a $100,000 fine and 12 months in prison when prosecuted. This problem can be very expensive for a small municipality. The Town is obligated to take action to eliminate this invasive species under the Act. If draining the pond is unsuccessful in eliminating the fish the cost of a series of chemical pesticide applications to kill the fish is estimated to cost between $25,000 and $40,000 for Town taxpayers. 

Any information about the release of these or other invasive species can be reported to Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 1-855-336-BOAT. Further information about invasive species can be found at www.abinvasives.ca