Lake Dredging in Athens, GA

Lake Dredging in Athens, GA

Do you manage a lake or other waterbody? If so, you probably wonder about the right time to call a dredging service in Athens. Since lakes and ponds undergo a natural cycle called eutrophication, dredging helps to prevent the gradual loss of volume and decline. At Aquatic Restoration, we provide quality lake management in Athens, keeping your water body healthy for years. When your lake shows signs of deterioration or aging, sediment removal through professional dredging can turn the clock back nearly 10 years. Let’s delve into the vital aspects of lake dredging in Athens to help you make an informed decision.

What is Lake Dredging?

Over time, silt, sand, and other debris at the bottom of the lake through a process called sedimentation. While it may not raise concerns initially, delaying maintenance can cause significant problems. Some of the drawbacks of buildup in your waterbody include shallow depths and poor water quality which threaten waterfowl, fish, and other aquatic wildlife.

Dredging is an efficient and effective solution for removing accumulated muck and restoring depth. However, lake dredging in Athens is expensive and requires prior planning to prevent inconveniences. In addition, it is an invasive process that entails uprooting food sources and natural habitats that support the freshwater food chain. Professionals recommend prolonging dredging for as long as possible to ensure maximum impact and a functional ecosystem.

Why Invest in Lake Dredging?

As mentioned, contaminants such as sand and debris can build up at the bottom of the lake over time, causing a dangerous cycle that speeds up aging. Not to mention the pollutants at the bottom of the waterbody contain undesirable nutrients that encourage weeds and algae. Once this unwanted growth dies, it sinks to the bottom, turning the lake into a smelly and murky ecosystem. Also, excess sediments reduce depth, increasing the risk of flooding and subsequent hazards.

The most effective way to prevent such scenarios is to call a trusted dredging service in Athens for maintenance. This effective lake management method restores the ecosystem for wildlife, plants, and fish, improving its overall quality. In addition, lake dredging reduces foul odor and cloudiness, as well as prevents harmful algae blooms which are toxic to humans and animals.

How to Tell It Is Time for Lake Dredging

When was the last time you scheduled professional lake dredging in Athens? Professionals often recommend prolonging dredging for as long as possible to maximize the benefits. However, if your last maintenance project was over a decade ago, there are telltale signs you can look out for to determine if it is time for dredging services.

Smaller Shoreline and Shallow Water

Debris and other materials can build up at the bottom of your lake over time, whether leaves and twigs in the fall or runoff in spring and summer. This sediment can cause the lake to become narrower and shallower. If you notice the shoreline becoming smaller every time you visit the lake, call a professional lake management service quickly.

Unsightly Algae and Aquatic Weeds

Another noticeable sign that it is time for professional lake dredging is the presence of algae blooms and unsightly weeds. While these harmful growths may not raise concerns initially, ignoring maintenance can lead to low oxygen levels, foul smells, and safety hazards. Also, algae are a sign of aging and dredging provides an effective restoration solution.

While property owners should prolong lake dredging in Athens for as long as possible, investing in alternative maintenance like hydro-raking is wise. This is an innovative technique that removes floating barges, clearing a significant amount of muck. Contact us at Aquatic Restoration and schedule a consultation with our experts to learn more about lake management in Athens.