The mayor of Thunder Bay, Ontario, has described sea lampreys as frightening and unpleasant creatures. Gale Bravener, an employee at Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), likened them to eels or snakes with sleek, slimy bodies and mouths equipped with suction cups and teeth. Tammy Cook, the chief administrative officer of the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA), remarked that sea lampreys are unattractive and reminiscent of creatures from a sci-fi movie.
These parasitic sea lampreys, originating from the Atlantic Ocean, have been causing significant damage in the Great Lakes for many years. They attach themselves to other fish using their mouths, draining their blood and bodily fluids, ultimately leading to the death of the host fish. Termed as vampire fish, they are a top priority on the Great Lakes Fishery Commission’s target list.
To combat the sea lamprey threat, a new permanent trap has been set up at the Neebing River Weir, the sole monitoring site for the invasive species on the Canadian side of Lake Superior. This trap aims to estimate the sea lamprey population in the river annually to monitor control efforts effectively and safeguard the valuable fisheries in the Great Lakes, valued at over $5 billion collectively.
The LRCA, in partnership with DFO, has permitted temporary sea lamprey traps on their properties for years. The new permanent trap, which operates by drawing river water and sea lampreys inside through a valve, ensures improved safety and efficiency. This initiative aligns with the LRCA’s commitment to conserving and protecting the lake and watershed.
A recent unveiling ceremony showcased the sea lamprey trap to educate the public about the invasive species and the importance of managing them in the watershed. Students from Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School attended the event, emphasizing the significance of involving young people in positive environmental initiatives.
Mayor Ken Boshcoff highlighted the importance of addressing environmental challenges and commended the community’s efforts in restoring the rivers to their natural state. He encouraged public participation in reporting sea lamprey sightings to support eradication efforts. Reporting can be done through the Sea Lamprey Control Centre or provincial channels, with the Invading Species Hotline reachable at 1-800-563-7711 for assistance.
Overall, the installation of the sea lamprey trap represents a crucial step in preserving the ecological balance of the Great Lakes and ensuring the sustainability of native fish populations.