u/JuDGe3690

In answer to some recent posts about river gunk, this was posted a couple hours ago on the Idaho DEQ Facebook page:

> Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) coordinated with City of Boise to investigate reports of increased “slime” or “gunk” in the Boise River, conducting site visits at the Ann Morrison float take-out, Barber Park, Barber Pool, and the Beaver Dick fishing access near Highway 21 and the Diversion Dam.

> Didymo (commonly known as “rock snot”) was observed at all four locations, with mats covering portions of the riverbed from Barber Park upstream. City of Boise submitted a sample for taxonomic identification, which confirmed the algae as Didymosphenia geminate, "didymo" for short.

> Didymo is a non-toxic algae that can produce nuisance growths in freshwater rivers. Based on current observations, DEQ believes the Boise River is experiencing a significant didymo bloom. As the bloom grows, its whitish-brown stalks can detach from rocks and drift downstream through the Boise River float section and beyond.

> While the exact cause is still being evaluated, DEQ suspects the bloom has been exacerbated by unusually low river flows. Current flows are the lowest observed for this time of year in approximately 30 years.

>DEQ encourages anglers and others recreating on the Boise River to help prevent the spread of didymo by cleaning boats, swimwear, fishing waders, footwear, and other gear before visiting another waterbody.