First off, DanC, welcome to Pond Boss! Great first post - you've obviously done some research. Because there are a number of varieties of pondweed, it may be helpful to have a few good quality pictures of it to aid in positive identification. Some varieties of pondweed are far less desirable than others, so that may make a difference in your planning.

If you don't have a lot of other vegetation, it may not be a bad idea to control sections of this growth by clearing casting lanes as you've suggested. Having some vegetation isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially if it's a reasonably desirable plant. American pondweed is pretty decent stuff - I have some of that in one of my ponds. On the other hand, curly leaf pondweed is seriously invasive and annoying, though short lived. I had an infestation of it in my larger pond and it was literally covered to the point it couldn't be fished just 2 to 3 weeks ago. Suddenly, the water is almost clear of it again.

I don't know much about aquatic vegetation at this point in my pond ownership career, so you definitely want the input of others who know a lot more than I do. Fortunately, the forum is full of those sorts! Again, try to post a few good pictures that show close up detail and that will assist in an accurate identification and treatment suggestions.

Welcome and stick around - it's great to have you here!


Todd La Neve

[Linked Image from i108.photobucket.com]
Click Here to Subscribe to Pond Boss Magazine

1.5 & .5 ac ponds - LMB, BG, RES, YP, GC, HSB