January 16, 2026
Canada Water Agency
EcoAction Stream2: Freshwater Sustainability and Innovation
Government of Canada
To whom it may concern:
On behalf of the Kelowna Chamber, we are writing to support the rapid eDNA detection tool which we heard about at the Okanagan Basin Water Board workshop a month or so ago.
The project, as you are aware aims to pilot and validate a field-deployable environmental DNA (eDNA) and CRISPR-based (SHERLOCK) detection system to rapidly identify zebra and quagga mussels during watercraft inspections and lake monitoring. Early detection is critical to preventing establishment and avoiding the significant ecological and economic impacts associated with invasive mussels.
As the workshop from OBWB outlined, rapid eDNA testing will greatly augment the current mussel testing tools and would be effective in the field. The Kelowna Chamber has worked closely to support the OBWB's efforts to increase awareness and champion the importance of detection and interdiction of invasive mussels. The Kelowna Chamber strongly supports the eDNA program, and is pleased to add our voice to those already supporting the research project at UBCO.
We look forward to hearing that the research has been fully funded and can proceed as quickly as is feasible.
Regards,
Kelowna Chamber of Commerce