Paddle Season is Here: Here’s How Parks Canada Protects Banff National Park’s Waters from Aquatic Invasive Species

The waters of Banff National Park are a big part of what makes this place special. The park’s iconic blue lakes inspire moments of awe for people from all across the world. Whether you're a visitor or a local resident, there's nothing quite like paddling across a turquoise alpine lake or canoeing along the Bow River in the summertime. But these waters are facing a growing challenge: aquatic invasive species or AIS.

These are non-native plants, animals, and pathogens that can attach themselves to watercraft, gear, inflatable toys, and even your footwear. Once they find themselves in water, they can spread rapidly, outcompeting native species, clogging waterways, and disrupting delicate ecosystems. From whirling disease to Eurasian watermilfoil, these invaders pose a serious risk to the health of Banff National Park’s lakes and rivers.

Parks Canada is taking action. In recent years, under the direction of the 2022 Banff National Park Management Plan, they’ve rolled out a variety of tools and reminders to make it easier for paddlers to keep invasive species out. From helpful signage to gear-cleaning stations, it’s all about making sure everyone can enjoy the water while keeping it wild and healthy.

Parks Canada is encouraging visitors to do their part in protecting the lakes and rivers we all love. It's an example of leading tourism for good in this destination!

“Our lakes and rivers are iconic, but they’re also vulnerable. Aquatic invasive species can spread easily on boats, paddles, or even floaties. Prevention remains the most effective defense, and it starts with each of us. Everyone has a role to play in keeping these ecosystems healthy," shared Jeanette Goulet, Aquatic Invasive Species Regional Coordinator at Parks Canada.

What's Parks Canada doing to protect Banff's waters?

1. Mandatory self-certification permits

Before launching any watercraft in Banff National Park, all paddlers must complete a self-certification permit. This confirms that their watercraft and gear have been properly cleaned, drained, and dried for the required time period.

2. Watercraft and gear inspection station

For the summer of 2025 a free inspection station is set up on the Lake Minnewanka Road, where Parks Canada staff use warm water to clean boats, paddleboards, and other water gear.

Visitors with motorized watercraft must book a Parks Canada watercraft inspection prior to launching on Lake Minnewanka. Visitors arriving from outside Alberta, BC, or the territories must dry their non-motorized watercraft and equipment for 30 days prior to use in the park. If you can’t meet this requirement, you can book a Parks Canada inspection prior to launching in the park. All inspections must be booked at least 48 hours in advance by emailing bfuaisprevention-eaeprevention@pc.gc.ca.

3. Increased monitoring

Parks Canada uses a suite of science-based methods to regularly monitor lakes and rivers for signs of aquatic invasive species. Zooplankton and environmental DNA (eDNA) samples are tested for species like zebra and quagga mussels. Staff are trained to inspect shorelines, boats and docks to identify problem plants and organisms. Staff also test fish placed in sentinel cages or from wild populations.

“Protecting freshwater ecosystems in Banff is a shared responsibility. Parks Canada uses a range of science-based methods to monitor for aquatic invasive species—but science alone isn’t enough. We need visitors to do their part," said Marie Veillard, Aquatic Invasive Species Project Coordinator at Parks Canada. "By cleaning, draining, and drying your equipment, you help stop the spread of invasive species and protect the lakes and rivers we all love.”

4. Public education and outreach

Through signage, online information, and programming, Parks Canada is making sure that every visitor knows the risks and the actions they can take. Educational materials explain how invasive species spread and why, if you love lakes and rivers, cleaning your gear matters! Learn how to Clean, Drain, Dry.

5. Partnering with regional agencies

Parks Canada works closely with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas and other regional partners to align inspection protocols and share data.

It takes all of us

In Banff National Park, we’re all about being responsible! Keeping the lakes and rivers healthy here isn’t only up to Parks Canada—it’s something we all play a part in. Whether you’re paddling for the first time or it’s a summer tradition, your actions on the water matter. Just by taking a few simple steps—like cleaning, draining, and drying your gear—you’re helping to protect this special place for the next generation.

This kind of care is part of something bigger. The vision to Lead Tourism for Good in Banff and Lake Louise recognizes that we all have a role to play in protecting the natural and living legacy of this place. When we work together, we can ensure our actions go beyond simply reducing impact and instead actively contribute to a nature-positive future!

Learn more about what you can do. Watch Parks Canada's "Clean, Drain, Dry" video.

Watch the Video