The Brandon Area Community Foundation is proud to support Brandon Riverbank Inc. with a $3,300 grant toward the purchase of a portable hot‑water pressure washer that will provide free decontamination services for self‑propelled watercraft such as canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.

This project comes at an important time. Aquatic invasive species (AIS), including recently detected zebra mussel veligers in the Assiniboine River at Brandon, pose a growing threat to Manitoba’s waterways. The Province has designated this section of the river as a restricted area, requiring all watercraft leaving the Assiniboine to undergo AIS decontamination before entering any other waterbody.

With limited provincial decontamination stations nearby, Brandon Riverbank Inc.—working toward becoming a paddlesports centre of excellence—is stepping up to support local paddlers and protect our waterways. Their new wash station will help prevent the spread of AIS, support safe recreation, and strengthen Brandon’s leadership in environmental stewardship.

Look for this program to launch once the river has thawed.