(reprinted from Google Groups for Nutmeg TU)

Dear friend of Nutmeg TU,

An invasive algae, commonly called “didymo” or “rock snot,” has been found in the Upper Connecticut River and in Vermont’s White River.  The Vermont and New Hampshire TU Councils and chapters need your help to stop the spread of didymo before it devastates wild trout populations. 

WHY WE CARE
Didymo does not present a health hazard to humans.  However its impact on native and wild trout populations has been severe in New Zealand, Quebec and other areas.  The algae, which thrives in cool water temperatures, attaches itself to the gravel and rocks at the bottom of the river bed. When the algae blooms, it forms massive mats that coat the gravel and rocks (reports of 4 to 5 inch thick mats are common).  These mats form a barrier for native organisms (caddis, mayflies and stoneflies) that result in their decline.  Studies suggest that young, wild trout populations are severely affected.

In addition, didymo is easy to spread.  Its cells are very small, so they absorb easily into clothing, wading boots, and sandals; they also stick to hard surfaces like tubes, kayaks, and fishing gear.  If these items are not cleaned and dried completely, the algae will live (one report had didymo surviving for 8 months on felt sole boots stored in a garage) and can be spread the next time the item is used.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
1.)  Soak all clothing, wading boots, sandals, etc in hot, soapy water for 30 minutes.

2.)  Wash all hard surfaces like tubes, kayaks, and fishing gear with hot, soapy water as well.

3.)  A 5% detergent solution is effective.  Use 3/4 cups of any detergent (dish soap, antiseptic hand soap, or laundry detergent) per gallon of hot tap water to kill the algae.

4.)  Learn more about didymo algae at www.biosecurity.govt.nz.  Also, please visit the website of Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers --www.protectyourwaters.net.  (For additional information about efforts in Vermont to address the problem contact Mary Russ, Executive Director, White River Partnership at 802-767-4600 or www.whiteriverpartnership.org.)

Thank you,

Ron Rhodes,
VT National Leadership Council Representative
(rhodes@sover.net )