Klamath tribes work to protect rare Mare’s eggs

KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) -- In the Klamath Tribes’ treaty territory, tribal councilors are working to protect a rare blue-green algae known as Mare’s eggs, or Nostoc pruniforme. The unusual, water balloon-like organisms draw curious tourists who sometimes pick them from the water, killing them and disrupting their fragile habitat.

Scientists consider Mare’s eggs nitrogen-fixing organisms that help promote clean water and play a unique role in the local ecosystem. The algae also have a short, slow growth season, making them especially vulnerable to disturbance and overhandling.

Klamath Tribes Chairman William Ray Jr., Councilwoman Willa Powless and Councilwoman Natalie Ball recently visited the river with U.S. Forest Service officials and tribal administration staff to see the problem firsthand. During the visit, Ray raised concerns about the number of permits issued to professional guide services along the Klamath River.

He advocated for reducing guide permits as one way to limit pressure on Mare’s eggs and other sensitive resources. Tribal staff also discussed additional steps to protect the habitat and envisioned a future in which the land is returned to the Klamath Tribes, allowing original stewards to once again take the lead in safeguarding this vital resource.