Wolfmann, welcome aboard. esshup is right on target with the info he gave you. Also be aware that your watershed could be contributing to the muddiness, so check that for bare soil also.
If you don't get a good ground cover this summer, I would also think about annual rye grass this fall to get the remaining bare spots. Just be aware that the rye may create a lot of maintenance mowing wise early in the year.
And finally, once your water clears, you'll probably get shoreline and emergent weeds. Primrose, pennywart and coontail are all pretty common in your area. Stay on top of them early, and they're much easier and cheaper to control.
Tell us about your pond, and your goals for it.
