A new public informational flyer about Asian clam, an invasive species identified in Lake George for the first time this August, has been released. The flyer explains how citizens can help to identify and prevent the spread of this clam. The flyer is available here.
Designed specifically for Lake George, the flyer will help the general public discern the Asian clam from the native mollusks that live in Lake George and pose no threat. The Asian clam is a very small and round bi-valve. It is typically less than 1.5 inches in size, and can spread rapidly. A single clam can reproduce alone, and can release hundreds of juveniles per day. The biggest problem Asian clams have caused in other water bodies is biofouling – or clogging of water intake pipes.
Officially known as Corbicula fluminea, the Asian clam is native to southern Asia, the eastern Mediterranean and Australia. The Darrin Fresh Water Institute found it off Lake Avenue beach in Lake George Village on August 19. Up to 600 clams per square meter were documented, covering an area of approximately 2.5 acres.
Spearheaded by the Darrin Fresh Water Institute, a committee has formed to coordinate response efforts. Representatives from the Darrin Fresh Water Institute, Lake George Park Commission, Lake George Association, FUND for Lake George, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, Adirondack Park Agency, Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program, and Lake Champlain Basin Program are working together to pool resources and expertise. Their next step is to determine the extent of the spread of the clam, map the extent of the invasion, and then weigh options for eradication or management. The hope is that the infestation has been discovered soon enough to successfully eradicate it.
The public is asked to look for the clams in sandy or gravelly bottom areas of Lake George, in shallow, warm water; this is the clam’s preferred habitat. If a clam is found that matches the description of the Asian clam, citizens are asked to get a sample or take a photograph and call the Lake George Association at 518-668-3558.
In addition, the public can avoid spreading the Asian clam, as well as other invasive species, by following these guidelines whenever leaving a waterway:
Check and remove any visible mud, plants, fish or organisms from boats, trailers, equipment, clothing, dogs, etc.
Clean and eliminate water from equipment. Be sure to drain all water, including live wells and bait buckets.
Do not use Asian clams as bait.
Dry anything that comes in contact with the water.
Never release plants, fish, or other animals into a waterway unless they come from that waterway.
Print out, distribute, and post the informational flyer in your place of business.