Originally posted by: brodrfshs on 7/17/2005 7:44:52 AM

<!--graemlin::o--> Here in East Central Indiana we have the White River as one of our biggest confluences. The other day I went to this river to sein for Softcraws. What I found was shocking to say the least.
Through a stretch of about six miles in and around Muncie, the sandbars had been washed away down to the gravel bed beneath them. The waters were void of crayfish in their entirety except for the three we found, and the minnows were very tiny, (1/2"- 1') with few exceptions larger. Creek Chubs were not seen as were the vacancy of most of the frogs.
The weather was a moderate 82 degrees with a misty rain and slight to moderate breeze so there was no weather related reason for these phenomina.
So my questions are:
1. Where did all of the sand bars go and how?
My friend and I covered anywhere from 300 yards to 2500 yards stretches in each area we waded.

2. Where did all the crayfish go.
We also know that without sandbars and crayfish a freshwater river's ecosystem cannot survive very well for a lengthy time.

3.Have any of you hoosier anglers experienced the same in the White river, or any other of the rivers in your local areas? Please respond to this message as this is becoming an alarming mystery. We do know from recent contact with the water quality management superintendant here in Muncie that it has been well documented with many annual awards that the water quality here is said to be some of the best in the state.
Also, if there are any fisheries biologist reading this message, if you have any ideas, please also respond.
FROM A VERY CONCERNED LIFE MEMBER.
COLOR ME STUMPED.