PLATTSBURGH (AP) - A new boat with specialized equipment shows promise for controlling fish-killing lampreys in Lake Champlain.
The Glens Falls Post-Star reports that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has purchased a boat with equipment that allows biologists to more accurately target areas where sea lamprey young are living. The boat has side-scanning sonar, as well as a sprayer that can be used in rough, windy conditions.
Bill Schoch of the state Department of Environmental Conservation says the boat is a big improvement over previous equipment.
The new boat and equipment were used last month to treat the Saranac River delta, a major lamprey breeding ground. Officials say the pesticide sprayed killed hundreds of thousands of lamprey young.
Lampreys kill sport fish by attaching to them and sucking their blood.