Part 2 in our series on lake and pond interaction
Pond scum control
Most of the questions regarding pond scum, lake moss, or pond algae ask how to get rid of it. This is perfectly logical. The problem is, that the pond scum itself is just a symptom of other problems. The first evidence we have of it’s existence is when it floats to the top and interferes with the aesthetics, our recreation or our fishing. Filamentous algae, or pond scum as it is more commonly known exists in most bodies of water, and will begin to show itself when conditions are right for it. It grows from the bottom, and sunlight allows photosynthesis when it penetrates to the bottom. The photosynthesis process allows the algae to take in carbon dioxide, and exhale oxygen, some of the oxygen, which is good for fish, will be released under the algae mat, and gradually cause it to float to the top, where it becomes a nuisance.
Lake weed control
Most of the questions we receive about lake weeds revolve around how to get rid of them. As with pond scum, most lake weeds get their start at the bottom of the pond when sunlight reaches them. When conditions are right, they may grow out of control causing problems for the pond owner. Some aquatic weeds are capable of doubling in mass in a week or less, leaving the pond owner with a huge aquatic weed control problem. If measures are taken to kill the weeds with aquatic herbicides, the weeds will die, and drop to the bottom where they will decay over time. This can produce a slimy, and high organic fertility on the pond bottom, perfect to supply nutrients to the next generation of weeds!
Mechanical lake weed control
Mechanical controls and mechanical lake weed harvesting may produce less slime at the bottom, but care must be taken when using a lake weed cutter to collect all the fragments, as aquatic weeds are notorious for their ability to reproduce from fragments. One plant chopped into 100 pieces may turn into 50 new plants in a matter of days.
See: The relationship between excessive aquatic vegetation, Mosquitoes And Skinny Fish
