TECHNICAL
Clean, clear, healthy water gets the wildlife’s seal of approval
raking. However, this method is a temporary solution because it treats the symptoms rather than the cause. Also, it is relatively expensive, labour intensive and will need to be repeated as the plants regenerate.
Chemical control is the most common method of pond and lake management. Herbicides are applied to the pond to kill the algae and plants. This method is quick and effective but may, in the process, produce other problems such as fish kills and odours. In addition, chemical control, like mechanical control, treats only the symptoms of the problem, is expensive, often requires permits and may damage surrounding turf and plants if the treated water is used to irrigate other areas.
Biological control is a third method of pond management. One application is the introduction of weed eating fish like koi or grass carp. These fish can be quite effective in keeping excessive weed growth under control. They are inexpensive over the long term and require no labour or upkeep once they are in the water. They are hearty feeders; though, they will consume algae only if their preferred aquatic plants are not available. Plants utilise photosynthesis in the pond to create dissolved oxygen so, if all the aquatic plant growth in the pond and a major source of oxygen is removed, this can result in odour and water quality problems.
A second biological control method is the introduction of wetlands at the areas where water or runoff flows into the pond. The wetland area can perform two functions. First, it will slow the progress of water into the pond, reducing erosion and flooding problems. Secondly, the intensive plant
growth in a wetland area acts as a nutrient sink for the high nutrient water flowing into the pond. The plants in the wetland will actually absorb nutrients before they can enter the pond. This can result in a higher water quality due to lower organic nutrient levels, if a balance can be found.
Lake dye can also be effective in improving the appearance of a pond or lake. They work to block penetration of sunlight into the pond, subsequently slowing the growth of aquatic plants and creating a dark blue hue.
Finally, aeration is the most effective, long- term pond and lake management tool and should be used in conjunction with any of the aforementioned treatments. If natural aeration isn’t working, then mechanical aeration is the option. Aeration, by definition, is the mechanical addition of oxygen to the water. By depositing large amounts of oxygen into the water, aeration encourages strong aerobic bacteria to clean the pond of organic nutrients and waste. High oxygen levels also prevent anaerobic digestion that leads to nutrient cycling and foul odours.
The circulation rate produced by aeration breaks through the thermal stratification and distributes oxygen to all parts of the pond. By pulling cooler water to the surface of the pond, algae growth is slowed and the water’s pH. level is balanced. This process reduces odours. Aeration is economical, supports the natural ecosystem and, most importantly, attacks the source of the problem continuously. In addition, spray type aerators are aesthetically pleasing to any landscape.
By taking a proactive approach to water quality management, you can help ensure that your water features are clean, functional and aesthetically appealing for many years to come.
Reg Varney, Otterbine international region manager
For more
detailed pond and lake
management
information, contact Otterbine’s UK distributor Reesink Turfcare on 01480 226800 or email
info@reesinkturfcare.co.ukor visit
reesinkturfcare.co.uk
PC June/July 2019 139
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