Spruce Grove identifies invasive goldfish in Easton SWMF

SPRUCE GROVE -- Spruce Grove is launching a new strategy aimed at combating invasive goldfish.

This comes after the municipality recently identified the invasive species, known as Carrassius auratus, in the Easton stormwater management facility. This prompted Spruce Grove staff to enter into consultations with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas to develop a strategy to remove the fish from the system. 

"Consultations with AEPA, other municipalities, and several environmental agencies have made it clear that, without treatment, these goldfish will spread, threatening native fish and disrupting aquatic ecosystems," reads a statement from the City of Spruce Grove.

According to the province, invasive goldfish pose a threat to stormwater management facilities and natural aquatic systems through several means. These include the possibility of carrying pathogens that may infect other fish species and the potential contribution to algal blooms through nutrient cycling and sediment disturbance.

"The most effective way to remove goldfish from the SWMF is to use Rotenone -- a pesticide specifically used to target fish," said staff with the City of Spruce Grove. "Rotenone does not pose a risk to humans, birds, mammals, or pets when properly applied. It also breaks down naturally within weeks of application."

Rotenone application will take place at the Easton SWMF during the second week of September, with a second application taking place approximately three weeks later. The city notes that specific dates will be provided closer to the time, with additional notifications made directly to residents in the Easton area.