Didymo or "rock snot" - it doesn't arrive in clumps, its presence is much more difficult to see. |
The presence of didymo can take lots of forms, from algal blooms to dense mats that can form several inches thick on stream bottoms. Its presence changes the nature of streams, sometimes crowding out native algae altogether. When that happens, the local insect population is changed and that change can impact the entire stream community-including the once-popular fish species that no longer have their requisite dietary components in the water. A stream without mayflies, caddisflies or stoneflies isn't going to have a healthy trout population.
On a trip to Arkansas' White River two weeks ago, I was surprised to see visible clumps of algae in the water. There, guides called it "toilet paper" as they kept having to remove it from lures and weights bumping along the bottom.
It's being monitored there, and officials are keeping close watch on the anglers and gear that comes into the White. A significant change in that stream could have a huge impact on the local economy.
Although presence of didymo hasn't been tied directly to impacts in trout populations, it's common sense to keep the slimy stuff out of streams if possible.
Unfortunately, one of the standard pieces of stream fishing gear is a major culprit for smuggling in invaders.
With a porous composition that's slow to dry, the felt-soled wader or boot is a natural hidey-hole for bacteria and microscopic algae. Despite the best efforts at decontamination, it seems they're almost impossible to get totally cleaned.
In light of the failure of other measures, state and federal officials feel they have no other choice than to ban the long-standard soles. There are a variety of options suggested, from the low-cost option of cutting soles off of boots and using strap-on studded soles to replacing waders or boots with studded or high grip sole materials.
In fact, one suggestion is that anglers add their own studs to a pair of rubber-soled boots or waders using one-half inch next head sheet metal screws. If you're in the mood for a little self-cobbling, there are also hardened screws available.
Decontamination stations are popping up around the country, but anglers should take their own precautions to prevent spreading unwanted species. |
And a simple hosing down of your gear just won't do the job. The Center for Aquatic Nuisance Species (http://stopans.org) recommends breaking down wading equipment to its smallest possible components and washing each by hand, inside and out, while being certain to remove any material embedded in zippers, seams, or areas between sole lugs.
Whatever your equipment, there are three ways that are best for removing invasive species - after thorough cleaning: heat, cold and drying. And we're not talking about the hot or cold water temperatures typically available through a faucet.
According to information from the Center for Aquatic Nuisance Species, it takes a water temperature of 140 degrees for approximately 15 minutes to provide a reliable kill. If you're talking about using cold, deep-freezing is really the only reliable option.
After either option, the recommendation is drying in a hot sun until the object is dry inside and out.
Another tip- where you clean is important. If you can clean before you leave, you're reducing the chances of carrying any invasive species. If you drive half-way across the country before cleaning, well, it's not so effective.
Interestingly enough, using cleaning solutions and chemical agents isn't really encouraged. The Center says that following the careful cleaning steps can negate the need for harsh chemicals.
Whatever the steps you take, it's important to check the regulations where you're heading. More and more, you're going to find that your favorite set of waders or boots -if they're felt-soled- might no longer be permitted.
-- Jim Shepherd