How to correct some and avoid others F µ


ew things are as relaxing as mak- ing a few casts into a picturesque pond, letting yourself slow down, and getting in tune with nature. It


is no wonder that landowners who place high value on their ponds are upset when problems occur. This article offers some solutions to common problems, but does not discuss everything that you need to know in order to manage a pond. As with a garden, there are no easy


shortcuts to a good pond — good planning and regular management are required. To better understand what it takes to manage your pond, you will need to read one or both of the pond management booklets listed at the end of this article. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation can also provide limited assistance to Oklaho- mans. Texans can turn to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.


Correcting Pond Problems: Aquatic vegetation Pond plants are generally benefi cial,


providing feeding areas for fi sh, refuge for small fi sh from bass, and protecting shorelines from wave erosion. However, when plant growth becomes a nuisance, several approaches can be used to manage the problem.


48 The Cattleman May 2013


The problem plant must be identifi ed


before correct management steps can be taken. Herbicides or other control mea- sures that work on one plant may have no effect on another plant, or even make the problem worse. Collect a fresh sample of the plant and make a sketch of your pond. Take both to your county Extension offi ce for assistance in identifi cation and advice on management options. There are 2 common reasons why plants


get out of control in ponds. First, too many nutrients may be getting into the pond from sources such as livestock or overfertilized yards. This often leads to excessive growth of algae. Filamentous algae is stringy, lacks any


type of leaf, and often resembles green fi ber- glass insulation. Planktonic algae is visible only under the microscope, but when overly abundant it gives the water a thick green color, making it diffi cult to see a shallow submerged object. Another reason for excessive plant


growth is that there may be too many shal- low areas in the pond. Areas with less than 3 to 4 feet of water are ideal for aquatic plant growth. Many ponds are built with improper shoreline slopes. Livestock around a pond can also trample banks and dams, creating shallow, weed-prone edges.


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