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Connecticut’s environmental agency says an invasive algae has been discovered in the west branch of the Farmington River, a favorite place for trout fishing. Although the algae has been found in Vermont, New Hampshire and New York this is the first time it has been seen in Connecticut. WNPR’s Nancy Cohen reports.
This isn’t green algae. But white, brown or yellow. The thick clumps have earned a rather descriptive nickname: “rock snot”. Peter Aarreastad, the state’s Director of Inland Fisheries says DEP staff are keeping a close eye on the algae to see if has any affect on insects that trout feed on.
“A lot of the critters live in the bottom in the gravels and cobbles. If a blanket of algae were to smother them, there could be an obvious mortality or concern or a shift in the species composition. I actually think the greatest immediate concern for anybody may be the aesthetics. It’s not something that’s appealing to look at. And if it's interfering with fishing, that’s something that’s going to maybe bother folks.”
The algae is known to spread from one river to another on boats, boots and clothing. The DEP advises people to clean their belongings in very hot water. Freezing or drying out items will also kill the algae.
For WNPR, I’m Nancy Cohen.