If you have a natural or retention pond near your property, you have probably had to deal with pond scum at one time or another. Pond scum forms when a buildup of nutrients from water runoff (particularly the phosphorus that enters the pond during a rainstorm) or goose droppings feeds vegetation in the water which rises to the top and floats on the surface.
Spring, with longer days, warmer temperatures and increased sunlight, is a prime time for algae growth. Adding to the rise of scum is the rain that comes with Spring, along with the geese and debris like lawn clippings making their way into the water system. All of this adds up to an ideal way for filamentous algae to take hold and grow.
While unsightly, pond scum is not something that is terribly difficult to combat. Property owners can choose to take the challenge on themselves or hire an outside pond management company.
Ways To Fight Pond Scum
Removing the buildup of scum, floating vegetation and algae in your pond is important for the beauty and health of the water. There are several EPA-approved ways to fight pond scum including:
- Adding chemicals like herbicides and algaecides
- Stocking weed-eating fish
- Redirecting water runoff that enters the pond
- Aerating the pond with oxygen
- Keep lawn clippings out of the pond
- Stimulating surface flow with fountains
- Darken a pond with dye that will deplete the amount of sunlight and slow vegetation growth.
Living on a lake or pond can provide beautiful and peaceful sights, so don’t let algae take away your view. Take charge early and don’t let scum grab a foothold.
Who We Use
As property developers, Langston Development manages ponds and waterways in need of a variety of services. The research for this post was provided in part by our partners at Ponds RX, LLC.