Scientists: Clam-smothering mats damaging lake's ecology
Posted at: 01/14/2013 10:53 AM
By: AP
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LAKE GEORGE, N.Y. (AP) - Adirondack Park Agency scientists say plastic mats used to smother Asian clams in Lake George are damaging the lake's shoreline ecosystem by killing native plants and animals.
NewsChannel 13's media partners at The Post-Star report that APA commissioners approved a fast-track permit for the mats last week. But APA limited the permit to sites smaller than 3 acres after agency staff said the mats are changing the lake's ecosystem.
Eight known Asian clam populations, some covering more than 5 acres of lake-bed, have been repeatedly smothered with the mats since the clams were discovered in 2011.
Walt Lender of the Lake George Association said the mats have been used for decades to kill invasive species such as Eurasian milfoil. He said native plants repopulate quickly after they're removed.
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