Innovative research funded to prevent spread of invasive species

Ottawa – Climate change, pollution, and the introduction of aquatic invasive species through shipping activities can threaten marine life in the diverse ecosystems of Canada’s oceans and waterways. Through Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan, the Government of Canada is taking action to increase protections and further preserve these important marine ecosystems that play an important role for the health of Canadians and the environment.

Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez, announced investments of up to $10.9 million for four projects through the Oceans Protection Plan (OPP) to improve ballast water management systems in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region to combat aquatic invasive species. The four selected projects, funded through the OPP’s Ballast Water Innovation Program (BWIP), will advance industry-led solutions to assess and address technical challenges related to the installation, operation, and maintenance of ballast water management systems in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region. Ballast water management systems reduce the risk of introducing or spreading invasive species when ballast water is unloaded.

The organizations receiving funding are:

• Albion Marine Solutions Ltd.
• Algoma Central Corporation
• Armateurs du Saint-Laurent
• Mouawad Consulting Canada LP

The Oceans Protection Plan is a Canadian success story. When Indigenous Peoples, industry, communities, experts, academia, and government work together to protect our environment, grow our economy, and support good jobs across the country, we deliver real results. Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan is keeping our oceans and coasts healthy, advancing reconciliation, and building a clean future for our children and grandchildren.