Mo. ban on waders takes effect March 1

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri conservation officials say a new ban on some waders worn by freshwater anglers takes effect next month.

The state Department of Conservation says the ban on porous waders is an effort to control a type of invasive algae. The ban takes effect March 1 when the state's catch-and-keep trout season opens.

The non-native algae, called didymo or "rock snot," form thick mats on the bottom of cold streams and rivers, reducing food available to trout and other fish. They also clog water intakes and boat motors and interfere with fishing gear.

Conservation officials say the algae are probably spread through the soles of waders and wading boots.

The state Conservation Commission approved a regulation change last year banning the waders.