Good info guys. I put in bottom diffusers (three double 9" with 2 cfm to each on 3 acre pond) but it was early summer before they were installed and running so the FA already had a running start. Maybe next year will not be as severe.
I think you should be prepared to see it come and go, John, depending on the conditions you're presented. If you can remove it once it floats I recommend it in order to help reduce nutrient loading that occurs when it degrades. I find a nice 8' net is far better at removing FA than rakes and easier to remove.
I like you are composting your FA - great use! I dry it and use it as an element in my potting medium along with peat and black soil. Not sure it makes much difference, but at least imparts a feeling that I'm being resourceful/creative.