I was just sent this, so I am passing it along
INVASIVE SNAIL ALERT
OWENS RIVER
The New Zealand Mud Snail is a tiny, alien species that is invading some important California waters and threatening wild trout populations. The snail has already been found in both the upper and lower portions of the Owens River and is most likely being spread by anglers.
When the snail is introduced in an area, it quickly proliferates and can crowd out other macroinvertebrates. Trout do eat the snail, but derive no nutritional value from it. Over time, fish may continue to feed on the snails and gradually starve. The snail's rapid proliferation is complicated by its resilience. Currently, there is no knows method for eradicating it. It can also survive up to 25 days in moist environments, such as waders and other angling gear.
CalTrout urges anglers to help prevent the spread of this organism: After fishing in the Owens River area soak all wading gear in water that is 140-degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.
If fishing several waters in the Owens region, fish the Owens last to prevent spreading the snail to other area waters. Mud snails can be transported in the innards of fish. Remove the stomach and digestive tract from any harvested fish at the site you catch them. Dispose of that material in closed receptacles on site if at all possible. Dispose of any fish remains at a sanitary landfill. Do not flush them down your drains at home. Dry your gear thoroughly between uses at different sites. For more information on the New Zealand Mud Snail, contact the Department of Fish and Game.
-----Original Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of iain short
Sent: Wednesday, January 07, 2004 8:41 AM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: RE: [VFB] Wadders
Steve, a New Zealand Mud Snail , what country you from ??
iain
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