UPDATE — Invasive ’rock snot’ algae found in W.Va.

Associated Press CHARLESTON — Rock snot has arrived in West Virginia. The state Division of Natural Resources said Thursday the invasive algae — technically it’s didymo — was found recently in the Elk River near Webster Springs. The agency says it found didymo while investigating reports from anglers who spotted algae mats. Samples were confirmed as didymo by Maryland authorities. The algae can damage habitat and aquatic organisms. Though native to northern North America, didymo is now found in the western U.S., Maryland, New York, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Virginia. The DNR says didymo likely is expanding due to anglers and boaters. The algae can stick to paddles, boats, even felt-soled wading boots. The agency recommends scrubbing and disinfecting boots and... [read full story]