Conservation groups will conduct a study this summer to determine the extent to which an invasive algae has contaminated the Batten Kill.

Under a $3,500state grant, the Batten Kill Watershed Alliance and college students plan to sample the river in eight places in hopes of getting a hold on how widespread the problem is.

The invasive algae Didymo can threaten fish habitats and aquatic insect populations by clogging up spaces between rocks and killing insects.

Water testing will be done with the help of the state Agency of Natural Resources, the Watershed Alliance and The River Stewards, a local nonprofit organization.