When it comes to the management of a lake or pond, many people look for natural and environmentally-friendly options. There are, in fact, many eco-friendly solutions that can be used to help improve freshwater environments. These strategies are often employed as part of a proactive lake and pond management program. Many eco-friendly solutions can be found here.
The most effective and sustainable management strategies should be chosen based on the specific conditions of the waterbody. A comprehensive water quality analysis is typically the first step in identifying possible causes of problems in our water resources. Water quality analyses often show that nutrient imbalances are causing undesirable conditions. By carefully managing nutrient levels, your freshwater management professional can help create a balanced ecosystem that aligns with your goals for the property. Often goals are set around a reduction in nuisance algae, aquatic weeds or foul odours. Common tools in the management process include the use of Parklink’s beneficial bacteria, nutrient remediation products, vegetative buffers, and erosion control.
Beneficial bacteria products work to reduce and cycle problem-causing, excessive nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen. These products are made of high concentrations of naturally occurring aquatic bacteria that help improve water quality by speeding up the natural process of nitrogen cycling and breakdown of organic material.
Likewise, nutrient remediation can be a very effective way to bind nutrients, so they are no longer bio-available. An array of professional products can be used to bind phosphates so they may no longer impact water quality. Some products sink the excess nutrients to the bottom sediments; others allow them to be physically removed from the water column. These products are non-toxic and safe for aquatic life and all water uses.
Managing vegetation in and around waterbodies can also have a profound effect on water quality. Cultivating beneficial vegetative buffers around your lakes and ponds will help filter pollutants and sediments that enter waterbodies during rain events. Consider introducing native grasses and wetland plants and allow them to grow, un-mowed, 1 to 1.5 meter out from the shoreline.
Finally, diffused aeration systems and floating fountains help to improve water quality by increasing oxygen levels throughout the resource. High oxygen concentrations help create water quality conditions that convert nutrients to forms that cannot be utilised for nuisance aquatic weeds or algae growth.
It’s important to keep in mind that the implementation of these solutions is most effective when they are used together or in conjunction with other sustainable strategies already in place. For example, in the presence of aeration, beneficial bacteria will be more effective and provide better results. Adding one or many proactive, eco-friendly measures to your management program can ultimately lead to a greatly improved aquatic habitat—and you’ll also feel good knowing that you are being kind to Mother Earth in the process!