o The invasive algae Didymosphenia geminate (Didymo) was discovered on the upper Connecticut River in New Hampshire on June 25, 2007 and now it has been confirmed there is a "major" infestation in the White River in Vermont. This algae resembles cardboard colored toilet paper, and clings to rocks where it can cover the rocky streambed of rivers and streams and choke off all life on which fish feed eliminating any chance of survival of the fish. It hangs up on your nymphs, and spin anglers can get clumps of it on almost every cast. We have to clean our gear after we fish ANY body of water.

CHECK: Before you leave a river or lake, check items and leave debris at site. If you find any later, treat and put in rubbish. Do not wash down drains.

CLEAN: There are several ways to kill Didymo. Choose the most practical treatment for your situation which will not adversely affect your gear.

* Non-absorbent items
o Detergent: soak or spray all surfaces for at least one minute in 5% dishwashing detergent or nappy cleaner (two large cups or 500 mls with water added to make 10 liters); OR
o Bleach: soak or spray all surfaces for at least one minute in 2% household bleach (one small cup or 200 mls with water added to make 10 liters); OR
o Hot water: soak for at least one minute in very hot water kept above 60 ?C (hotter than most tap water) or for at least 20 minutes in hot water kept above 45 ?C (uncomfortable to touch).

* Absorbent items require longer soaking times to allow thorough saturation.
For example, felt-soled waders require:
o Hot water: soak for at least 40 minutes in hot water kept above 45 ?C; OR
o Hot water plus detergent: soak for 30 minutes in hot water kept above 45 ?C containing 5% dishwashing detergent or nappy cleaner; OR

* Freezing any item until solid will also kill Didymo.

DRY: Drying will kill Didymo, but slightly moist Didymo can survive for months. To ensure Didymo cells are dead by drying, the item must be completely dry to the touch, inside and out, then left dry for at least another 48 hours before use.


If you are moving items between waterways, you must Check, Clean, Dry.

If cleaning or drying is not practical, restrict equipment to a single waterway.


Please do not be complacent on this, CHECK, CLEAN, DRY your gear after fishing.