I had asked a previous question regarding the condition of the Boise River being so cloudy. I appreciate your answer and the detail that you took to explain the situation.
One thing that I did forget to ask is, what effect is this having on the fish? Certainty all that silt cannot be good for them. Are there areas of clear water they can get into the rinse their gills?
Thank you
Answer:
We have very little concern that the recent levels of suspended sediment in the Boise River are negatively impacting fish populations. Fish, including the trout that everyone likes to fish for, are very resilient to temporary spikes in suspended sediment. Trout and other cold and clear water species only struggle when suspdended sediment levels become very high, include high levels of ash, when oxygen levels sag, or when a combination of these factors exist for a long time period. These conditions were not present in the Boise River in recent months. Fish populations and angling will be fine as soon as the water clears.
Answered on:
Thursday, October 16, 2014 - 8:02 AM MDT