Pond Boss Forums GENERAL QUESTIONS Water chemistry Bacterial Treatment instead of Chemical Treatment

I have been following the Copper Sulfate post and it has taken the direction of using Bacteria as an alternative way to use chemical to treat Floating Algae.

I decided to start a new post to discuss Bacterial Treatment Usage and Application to remove nutrients in a pond.

I can contribute from my own experiences, as probably many others can.

When I first started to sell pond management products in 1999 I was hesitant to use bacteria, it seemed like snake oil to me, until I became more educated about it and until I saw its potential with my own clients.

The first distributor who approached me was trying to sell me a bucket of bacteria for 3000$. Then another one try to sell me "his" unique mix for 200$ a pound... no wonder people think this is expensive!

Seven years later, we are now selling bacteria with high CFU counts, certified products from 15$ to 30$ a pound. Those mixes always work better with aeration and some are capable to work without it.
Let's share stories: results, expectations, short comings or better than expected stuff�

Here is a prior thread on the subject. It is a must read and covers the topic. New thoughts anyone?

http://www.pondboss.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=20;t=002421;p=1

I'm certainly no expert on bacteria or microbial water treatment, so take this with a grain of salt. I think bacteria fall into 2 categories. Genetically engineered, and common. AFAIK, there are no genetically engineered bacteria modified especially for pond usage. (Someone please correct me if I'm wrong!)The other type is very common and inexpensive, and can be found at Wal-Mart in the plumbing supplies.