5 Algae Prevention Tips

Algae is a natural part of waterbodies like lakes and ponds, but too much can be a nuisance. It’s a matter of moderation, and property owners would be wise to set aside some time for lake and pond maintenance.

In this brief article brought to you by Aquatic Restoration, we highlight the risks of uncontrolled algae growth and provide some tips on how to prevent such a takeover. If you’d rather leave your lake or retention pond maintenance to uniformed and time-tested professionals, then call Aquatic Restoration to get in touch.

Why too much algae is a problem

If you’ve ever looked out at a pond or lake and seen a layer of green covering the surface, then chances are you’ve met algae. While algae is a natural and even necessary part of aquatic ecosystems, too much of it can turn your peaceful waterbody into a murky, smelly mess. Here’s why:

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Algae blooms consume oxygen from the water, especially when they die and decompose. This can stress fish and other aquatic life.
Thick algae blooms can turn crystal-clear water into a soupy green sludge. This can make recreational activities like swimming or fishing unpleasant.
Some algae species like blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) produce toxins that can harm humans, pets, and wildlife.
Excessive algae growth can block sunlight from reaching underwater plants and disrupt the food chain.
As algae decompose, they release gases like hydrogen sulfide which can cause your pond or lake to emit a rotten-egg smell.

Prevention Tip 1: Limit nutrient runoff

Algae thrive on nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus which often come from fertilizers, animal waste, and decaying organic matter. There are a few steps you can take to reduce this nutrient runoff:

Avoid over-fertilizing your lawn or garden.
Create a buffer zone of native plants around the shoreline to trap and absorb runoff before it reaches the water.
Manage pet and livestock waste and make sure it doesn’t wash into the pond or lake.

Prevention Tip 2: Aerate the water

Lack of oxygen and circulation can create stagnant conditions where algae flourish. Install an aeration system such as a fountain or bottom-diffused aerator to improve water movement and boost oxygen levels. This not only discourages algae growth but also supports fish and beneficial bacteria.

Prevention Tip 3: Introduce beneficial bacteria

Recruit bacteria to your team. Beneficial bacteria can help break down excess nutrients in the water. These bacteria are often added as part of a regular pond maintenance program and can work wonders for maintaining water clarity and balance.

Prevention Tip 4: Skim and remove debris

Leaves, twigs, and other organic debris that fall into the water can release nutrients as they decompose. Regularly skimming the surface and removing debris from the shoreline can significantly reduce nutrient buildup which supports algae growth.

Prevention Tip 5: Shade the water

Algae need sunlight to grow, so reducing sunlight exposure can help curb their growth. Planting trees or adding floating plants like water lilies can provide natural shade and lower water temperatures to make it harder for algae to thrive.

Hire the professionals

When in doubt, bring in the experts. The professional maintenance team at Aquatic Restoration can provide the tools and expertise you need to keep algae under control and your waterbody in top condition. Call or message Aquatic Restoration to schedule a convenient appointment today.

02 / Dec / 2024