Decoded: What the Smell of Your New York Mud Means

They say that "April showers bring May flowers", and this year, the phrase couldn't be more spot on in the Hudson Valley.

On both sides of the Hudson River, consistent rainfall means that nearly every yard and field is filled with soft muck just waiting to splatter boots and clothing. As it turns out, however, not all mud is created equal.

Mud Experts in New York State

Believe it or not, there are mud experts in New York, and they're currently conducting research across the state. As it turns out, the texture and even the smell of mud can help paint a more accurate picture of the surrounding environment.

"Types" of Mud in New York

There are at least two types of mud: the kind that forms on dry land after heavy rainfall, and the soft, wet soil on our local riverbanks and beds. Recently, scientists in upstate New York took to the water to investigate the consistency - and smell - of mud in a local creek bed for a very important reason.

Read More: Why Crayfish Are Appearing on Hudson Valley, NY Lawns

"Spring is mud season!", the New York State Museum recently posted on Facebook. "Mussel scientists can examine the consistency, structure, color, and aroma of mud to predict whether the stream bed habitat may be conducive to supporting mussel populations."

The Smell of Mud Helps Determine New York Mussel Habitats

As the museum explained, freshwater mussels depend on specific conditions for survival. Dark mud that smells like rotten eggs, for example, often has low oxygen levels, and does not support mussels or other bottom-dwellers. So what's "good" mud?

"Good" Mud in New York State

Mud that help mussel habitats is described as "somewhat soft and oxygenated sediments". This mud allows mussels to bury themselves, hiding from predators while still receiving the oxygen needed to survive.

Get our free mobile app

The verdict: stinky, dark mud means a bad habitat for living things (or possibly a sewer leak, which is an entirely different issue all together), and soft, lighter mud can be hiding some fascinating creatures (including land-dwelling crayfish, believe it or not). Speaking of mud, check out some other dirty items below.