Okay, barley straw prevents algae growth. But how do you control the algae that is threatening to cover my entire pond? The green mess encircles my pond (1.5 acres) all around the banks about 20 feet from the shore. It makes it impossible for my kids to fish, because even when they catch a fish, you have to peel the slime off of the fish, and it just takes the fun out of it. Any suggestions?