An obnoxious type of algae known as "rock snot" has been confirmed in a popular trout stream in Western New York.
The Department of Environmental Conservation said it is the first documented finding of the aquatic nuisance species west of the Catskills.
The algae, also called didymo, was recently found in Clear Creek in Cattaraugus and Wyoming counties. A concerned angler reported it to DEC.
The algae forms large mats of material that can have a negative impact on the food chain. The DEC advises anglers and boaters to prevent its spread by checking equipment when they leave an affected site and removing any clumps of algae.