The East Kootenay Invasive Species Council (EKISC) is raising the alarm after confirmed cases of whirling disease in fish from Kootenay Lake.

On December 6, the provincial government announced that three trout samples from the southern arm of the lake tested positive for Myxobolus cerebralis, the microscopic parasite responsible for the disease.

Whirling disease primarily affects juvenile salmonids, including trout and salmon, by attacking their brain stem and spinal cord. This often results in the characteristic whirling or spiraling swimming pattern, spinal deformities, and high mortality rates in infected fish. While the disease poses no risk to humans or pets, its impact on fish populations can be devastating.

“Prevention is key,” said Megan MacPhee, Program Assistant with EKISC. “Whirling disease spreads through spores that can cling to anything that moves between water bodies — boats, paddles, fishing gear, even pets or muddy boots. It’s critical that everyone takes responsibility to stop its spread.”

The parasite’s spores are highly resilient and can be transmitted through the movement of fish (alive or dead), fish parts, mud, and water. EKISC is urging all water users to adopt strict preventative measures, as there is no treatment for whirling disease once it’s established in a waterbody.

What You Can Do to Prevent the Spread

1. Handle Fish Carefully: Never move fish or fish parts between water bodies. Use designated fish-cleaning stations and always dispose of fish waste in the garbage, not in natural waterways.
2. Clean, Drain, Dry:

• Clean: Remove all mud, sand, and plant material from boats, gear, and equipment.
• Drain: Empty all compartments that can hold water, including bilges, livewells, and coolers.
• Dry: Allow items to dry thoroughly, ideally for at least 24 hours before moving them to another waterbody.

1. Follow Decontamination Protocols: For those using watercraft or equipment in high-risk areas, such as the Columbia River Watershed, additional cleaning procedures are recommended. Submerge or treat equipment with appropriate disinfectants for a minimum of 10 minutes.

“Clean, Drain, Dry isn’t just about preventing whirling disease,” MacPhee emphasizes. “These steps also help stop the spread of other invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels, as well as invasive plants and animals that can devastate local ecosystems.”

Winter Practices for Ice Fishermen

EKISC reminds ice fishermen that Clean, Drain, Dry practices are just as important in the winter months. “Even in freezing conditions, invasive species can hitch a ride on water, mud, and plant parts stuck to gear, equipment, or vehicles,” MacPhee explained. “Taking the time to clean off your ice fishing gear and sleds before moving to a new location can make a big difference in protecting our waters.”

How to Identify Whirling Disease in Fish

To help detect potential cases of whirling disease, watch for the following symptoms in fish:

• Erratic Swimming Behavior: Fish may swim in circles or struggle to move normally.
• Spinal Deformities: Look for curvature or twisting of the spine.
• Darkened Tail Areas: Fish may exhibit darker pigmentation around the tail.
• Stunted Growth: Juvenile fish may grow more slowly than healthy counterparts.
• Increased Mortality: Affected populations may experience higher death rates, particularly among younger fish.

Report Suspected Cases

If you observe fish displaying symptoms of whirling disease, EKISC urges you to report it immediately to the appropriate authorities:

• Email: [email protected]
• Conservation Officer RAPP Line: 1-877-952-RAPP (7277)

Stay Informed and Stay Vigilant

The provincial government has implemented additional cleaning and decontamination measures for moving boats and equipment in and out of high-risk areas. Water users are encouraged to learn more about these updated protocols to protect our waterways.

By working together and adopting these preventative measures, we can minimize the spread of whirling disease and safeguard the health of Kootenay Lake and other aquatic ecosystems. For more information, visit EKISC’s website or contact our team directly.

“Every action counts,” said MacPhee. “Let’s all do our part to protect the incredible biodiversity of the East Kootenay.”

The East Kootenay Invasive Species Council (EKISC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering partnerships and advancing collaborative projects in natural and applied science, policy research, outreach, and education. Our mission is to safeguard forests, fields, gardens, waterways, and urban areas from the harmful impacts of invasive species.

EKISC operates through two key programs: our Field team, which conducts on-the-ground invasive species monitoring, treatment, and inventory efforts, and our Education team, which provides outreach, training, and resources to the community. To learn more about our work and access a comprehensive range of invasive species resources, visit us atwww.ekisc.com.

East Kootenay Invasive Species Council photos

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