The petition expresses concern over the federal government’s lack of adequate funding for invasive mussel prevention in British Columbia. The petition warns that zebra and quagga mussels, recently found in Idaho’s Snake River, pose serious threats to British Columbia’s ecosystems, infrastructure, and Indigenous lands. The petition claims that these mussels harm water quality and endanger native and endangered species. It also claims that they are spread mainly through recreational boating, which means that boat inspections and decontamination are essential. The petition argues that although the British Columbia government and Indigenous Nations are taking action, federal authorities have a legal duty under several statutes, such as the Fisheries Act, the Canada Border Services Agency Act, and the Species at Risk Act, to lead and fund coordinated prevention efforts. In addition, the petition asserts that the Canada National Parks Act requires the federal government to assume responsibility for the administration of national parks in a way that maintains their ecological integrity. The petition asks for clarity on federal measures, plans to protect aquatic species, and support for the Government of British Columbia to prevent these mussels from establishing in British Columbia’s water systems.
The petition claims that federal funding for aquatic invasive species in British Columbia has been limited, despite legal obligations and biodiversity commitments. The petition also notes that the federal government is responsible for working with affected Indigenous communities to protect their lands and waters from harm in line with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The petition asks Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada how it is helping Indigenous communities protect their lands and preserve their way of life.