Editor:
On my mind is the invasive pumpkinseed sunfish in Trout Lake and just as concerning now in Colvin Lake. For most purposes just calling them “sunfish” is brief and to the point. This means that nothing from Trout Lake should be transmitted to any other watershed. When I say nothing, that includes sunfish, other fauna, any flora, sediment or water. This is a big ask, but what is at risk is the native species and biodiversity of every freshwater habitat in our region and beyond. Although not as visible as broom, knotweed or purple loosestrife, maintaining and balancing the species and habitats in our watersheds is at risk. For now, containment is the least that can be hoped for. Natural biological controls, such as trout, river otters, weasels, mink, and water birds will hopefully do their part. Which brings up a concern about egg transmission by some of these species. The only proven measure presented was electro-harvesting, that would take an amazing amount of time, cost and effort. Manual trapping is effective, and would also be laborious, costly and time consuming. People have suggested other measures, such as certain fish introductions, system poison and draining, none of which are likely, possible or acceptable.
As you can see, never introducing invasive species is preferable to attempting to control or finding a biological balance for them. So far, our authorities that can provide permits or actions for dealing with these sunfish are either unwilling, unable or uninterested.
John R. Dafoe, Coastwise Guide and Consulting, Halfmoon Bay
