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.