Inquiring minds want to know:

HOW DO YOU MANAGE A

weeds and algae along with how to manage the dense how DO you manage a pond? 

variety of species and geniuses can make for a daunting afternoon of reading. In fact, it may take you several years and a PhD to truly understand an ecosystem. However, as a homeowner or property manager the language seems pretty simple, “What is this green stuff that popped up over the weekend?” “What are these weeds coming out of the water, and how do we get rid of them?”

Whether you live on a lake or you manage or live in a community that has ponds, hiring a professional to take care of the “green stuff” is the most logical answer. But have you ever inquired about what types of treatment options are available? Understanding how your provider is managing your water is the most important aspect of proper vegetation control. Let’s have a look into two different ways an applicator can effectively treat your weeds and algae.

Typically, the go-

to method of treatment options is a surface application. Herbicides and algaecides are applied to the target area by a backpack or handheld sprayer in order to target a small plot of algae or weeds. The applicator walks along the shore making sure to achieve maximum coverage and proper lethal dose of the product for the most effective treatment. This tried-and-true method has been used for years and still remains relevant today. In some cases, a surface application is the only available

Understanding the complexities of

By Joe Haufle, Aquatic Service Consultant, Clarke

8 | COMMON INTEREST®

A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter