Andrew, I too had the DW problem and for me, coupled with Coontail.
I made the prickly rope that esshup directed you to, as well as a DW skimmer which was also found from a previous thread. This picture is before I put the floats on but it works incredibly well. For me though, 2 acres was an impossible chore. And you have to realize how quickly DW will reproduce! I was told you could remove 80% of it and within 2 weeks, it will all be back!
This is the DW skimmer I made that also works incredibly well! I moved the eye-bolts up a little higher, tied two long ropes onto the eye-bolts and just toss it out and drag it back in. It will skim just below the surface, trapping anything it it's way (DW, leaves, debris, etc.). Both very cheap to make!
For me I went the Fluridone route and couldn't be happier with the results! Completely gone in 6 weeks!!! Unfortunately my Coontail has returned, in part because I treated more for the DW than I did the Coontail (less PPB used) so a second treatment of Fluridone will take place next week. It's very pricey stuff but extremely effective!
After hours and hours of trying to remove the DW myself, I will not hesitate to treat with Fluridone, as long as finances allow it.
Here's the before and after. Worth the money? You Bet!
I too wanted to do everything without use of chemicals, then realized there are times where the chemicals are beneficial and necessary depending on your goals.
I wish you the best and continue reading and learning on this forum.
PB Rocks!