Lakes in 2 of BC’s well-known national parks closed in drastic move to protect fish

As Kootenay National Park begins to thaw, slowly revealing signs of what should be a busy recreational season, the threat of whirling disease has sent a chill up the spines of aquatic biologists at Parks Canada. The parasite has been known to cause up to 90% declines in some fish populations, putting a freeze on all water access in Kootenay and Yoho National Parks until March 31st, 2025.

“We understand that this might be disappointing to some of our visitors, but it is Parks Canada’s mandate to protect the ecological integrity of our ecosystems,” said a Parks Canada spokesperson.

The invasive parasite has already been detected in six areas of Yoho National Park. The telltale signs of infection include a bent spine, a blackened tail, and fish displaying a whirling swimming pattern. The hope is that this pause in activity will slow the spread, as there’s no cure for whirling disease once it’s in the watershed. A simple transfer of wet, muddy, or otherwise dirty watercraft and equipment can introduce the disease.

The Elk River Alliance has been sounding the alarm across the region, asking water users to diligently clean, drain, and dry their equipment and to stay in one location. “One of the biggest ways that it spreads is through the transfer of wet or dirty equipment,” noted a spokesperson.

Parks Canada decided the risk was just too high, and greater action was needed. “It’s very difficult to find appropriate locations where we can capture all visitors and clean boats,” said another official.

Local fishing guides tell Global News that any effect on business is outweighed by the need to protect the fish. Any non-compliance could result in charges of up to $25,000 under the National Parks Act.

While a much-awaited season for some might be over before it’s even begun, Parks Canada says it needs more time to investigate to keep whirling disease from spinning out of control.