OHIOPYLE — An invasive form of algae called “rock snot” has been found in a Western Pennsylvania river. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission said the slimy goop was spotted earlier this month in the Youghiogheny River.

Officials said the algae can cover river beds, snuffing out insects and other organisms that feed larger fish. The algae known also as Didymo can also make swimming and boating an unpleasant experience.

State officials want boaters and fisherman to make sure they properly clean their gear before using it in a new waterway to prevent the spread of the algae.

GIBSONIA — PennDOT crews had to use a truck with a magnet on its front bumper Monday to clear hundreds of nails from a stretch of the Turnpike.A Turnpike spokesman said at least four motorists reported flat tires after a box of nails fell off a truck in the westbound lanes near mile marker 36 in Richland Township at about 7 a.m.The truck's magnet cleared more than 200 nails from the road in less than a half hour.