Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Baraclear

I am considering ordering some baraclear to help clear my water and I am wondering if anyone has tried it so I could get an idea of how well it works. I don't like to just take the manufacturers word for it.

Brian,
Here's a thread. http://www.pondboss.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=16;t=000031

Found it under Muddy Water

Brian - I won't say anything negative about BARACLEAR since I'm not overly familiar with its properties, mode-of-action nor cost-effectiveness.

However, I'm a little apprehensive of its use in fisheries management programs - particularly if a phytoplanton bloom is desired. The mfgr's promotions comment on tying up phosphates - which is exactly what most pond fertilization programs seek to provide for phytoplankton production. Therefore, the product's use would seem somewhat counterproductive for many fish-production situations - unless you're feeding the forage-base in some other manner.

Then again, BARACLEAR's overall effect may not be that much different from a conventional aluminum sulfate treatment (commonly used to clear muddy water). However, aluminum sulfate can cause a rapid pH shift (drop), sometimes to such degree that the fish cannot tolerate it. In some cases, quick lime is used to offset the pH shift caused by aluminum sulfate treatments. But, it can be a tricky proposition to apply the two compounds at the proper ratios (to cancel pH shift) - and you really need to know what you're doing to avoid fish problems.

I do appreciate the link but I did all the searches I could and read all posts before asking. The previous discussion really doesn't tell me anything about it.

I am not too concerned with tying up phosphates. The water up here is so fertile that if we ever fertilized we would have to drain the pond and start over. I think alum would also trap phosphates to a certain degree. but there is always more where they came from. I would be more concerned that trapping it on the bottom would keep it from breaking down and it would just be saved for later when the seal is broken.

Baraclear is also buffered so they say, so there are no ph concerns.

I was hoping to find someone who has actually used it. I have called the company several times to ask some questions about it but haven't talked to an actual person yet.

Brian,

The company is owned by Haliburton. Does that tell you anything? LOL

Seriously I was considering using it too, but the cost was much higher than purchasing alum from a local chemical supplier. I was intrigued though by the ease of application.

As far as talking to a person, I was able to, but he kept leaving me for other calls, and seemed to become annoyed with my questions. That turned me off.

One thing I have to wonder about the product. It's supposed to clear the water column but I don't see how if it quickly goes to the bottom and stays there. The answer from the operator was it's efferescent. And? If you brodcast alum at least you know it is sinking into the water column taking clay particles with it.