According to Parks Canada officials, lab results have confirmed the presence of Whirling Disease in Banff National Park. 

"... This parasitic disease affects some fish species but does not present any health risks for people or other mammals. Westslope Cutthroat Trout (WSCT) are listed as a threatened species in Canada and are one of the fish species susceptible to the disease," Parks Canada stated on its website. 

To prevent the spread of the parasite, Park authorities have implemented strict prohibitions on boats, fishing,  as well as the use of waders and wading boots in several backcountry lakes. The following lakes and bodies of water are under the prohibition order:

  • Hidden Lake
  • Little Herbert Lake
  • Margaret Lake and Creek (including the headwall and stream up to Turquoise Lake and a small portion of Hector Lake at the outflow of Margaret Lake)
  • Helen Creek

However, officials underlined the parasite has not been detected in the lakes listed in the prohibition order. The closures are instead a preventative measure in areas in which Parks Canada is currently restoring WSCT populations. The prohibitions are in effect till at least March of next year.

"It will remain in effect until alternate management strategies are implemented. The risk factors for spreading the disease include the movement of fish, mud/sediment, aquatic vegetation and water," Parks Canada stated on its website.

Those who do not abide by the rules could be charged under the Canada National Parks Act, which carries a $ 25,000 penalty. Whirling disease was first detected in Banff National Park in 2016, in Johnson Lake.

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