Pond and Lake Management
We specialize in lake management,
and combine many years of experience treating lakes against invading plant
species, without disrupting the delicate ecosystem of the lake and surrounding
areas. It is easy to let a lake get out of control, and a slower process to
bring it back around. Our technicians will make regular visits and inspections,
treat the required areas to control noxious weeds, and return the lake to its
natural beauty.
Preventive Maintenance
A regular schedule and good pond management
practices can help prevent development of serious weed problems. These methods
all enhance water chemistry and fertility to maintain healthy stocks of
phytoplankton (algae)--the aquatic "pasture" that supports the entire
food web and may directly or indirectly influence the well-being of other
aquatic organisms from aquatic insects to fish.
Aquatic Weed Control
The very core of our business is in the understanding and control of aquatic
weeds and pests, so as to improve the aesthetic qualities and health of lakes,
ponds, wetlands and other areas where non-native plants grow. The photograph on
the right is what we often encounter when a lake has been overcome with aquatic
plant pests. To remedy the situation, our technicians will determine the species
involved and propose a course of treatment to return the lake to its natural
beauty and maintain control over future weed invasion with regular check-up and
treatment.
Fertilization
Phytoplankton generally require the same
nutrients as land-based plants. In freshwater ponds phosphorus is the nutrient
that is most likely in short supply, and therefore limits the growth of
phytoplankton. Fertilization is often recommended in the spring when water
temperatures will support rapid phytoplankton growth. Fertilization will
accomplish two things: first, research has demonstrated that fertilized ponds
produce more fish. That is, increased production at the base of the food web is
eventually transferred to the level of fish. This can mean improved recreational
fishing. Second, increased phytoplankton abundance, or blooms as they are
commonly referred, in the spring will create shading that can prevent or delay
the establishment of nuisance plant growth on the sediment surface. However,
fertilization can contribute to weed problems since nutrients can be quickly
released from phytoplankton as they die or are consumed by microscopic animals
called zooplankton. Ponds can be fertilized using a complete commercial
formulation containing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in various
proportions. However, with the knowledge that most freshwater systems are
limited by a lack of phosphorus, additions of polyphosphate or phosphoric acid
are sometimes made. Various organic fertilizers are also employed including hay,
cottonseed or soy meal, and even manure. All of these fertilizers add organic
materials including decaying particles called detritus, which are valuable as
food for some pond organisms. Commercial fertilizers have recently become
available that have nitrogen and phosphorus ratios reflecting phytoplankton
needs in freshwater in a time-release formulation that ensures a steady supply
of nutrient to maintain phytoplankton blooms without the "boom-bust"
pattern of regular fertilizers. |