Tote filled with Live Rock

[vinnyguitara]

I have a big rubbermaid garbage can filed w/ probably 150+ lbs of LR. It has been in this tub w/ saltwater and a powerhead for 2-3 years untouched. I quickly opened the top yesterday and it's smell isn't "horrible" - couldn't really smell much except a tiny bit when I jostled the can and all the rocks shifted. The rocks look completely bare like dry base rock so I assume all is dead. What is the best way to deal w/ this rock and store it as it isn't needed at this time. Should i drag the tote outside and empty the rocks into a bin or onto a blanket and let them air dry fully and store them dry? I do not want to discard them but I have no need for them at this time. I'd love to have a cache of rock I can sort through and pick out some premium pieces that I like (shape wise) so having a dry inventory sounds good to me. What are everyone's thoughts on this? Either way the tote needs to be emptied and moved today since we need the area back to lay down some tiles.

 

[Idoc]

Just let the rock air-dry in the sun for awhile and store in a dry tote...

 

[vinnyguitara]

Thats what I figured just wasn't sure I could do lasting damage or poison the rock. I'll handle it this way!! Thanks.

 

[secret_reefer337]

Here is my thought, you can clean it and save as dry to be used in the future. When you are ready to start a tank you can re-seed it with bacteria.

 

[vinnyguitara]

IE if I garb a few dry pieces and add them to an established system they should reseed from the established rock. Awesome. How long do you think these will take to FULLY dry outside?