Pond Boss Forums AQUATIC VEGETATION Controlling unwanted plants Eliminating Planktonic Algae

I have a 3 acre pond surrounded on three sides by large oak trees. The water has become a hazy green and it looks like a form of planktonic algae. I have used Cutrine Plus once this spring already and I'm concerned about overusing chemicals. Also, lost a few oak trees and I'm worried that it may have been a side effect of the Cutrine Plus. I had been doing regular doses of beneficial bacteria, but have not done that in over a month. Looking for recommendations on how to clear up the water. Thanks, Mark

Planktonic Algae is important because it's what feeds the zooplankton which feeds the lower end of the food chain (minnows, YoY fry). Planktonic Algae is a sign of a very fertile pond, albeit aesthetically unappealing.

From https://extension.psu.edu/planktonic-algae ....

-Planktonic algae are at the base of the food chain in the pond or lake.
-They are fed on by zooplankton (microscopic animals) which, in turn, become food for fish.
-Ponds with abundant planktonic algae are often able to support larger populations of fish that grow more quickly.
-Excessive growth of planktonic algae will cloud the water, making it less aesthetically pleasing.
-Overabundance of planktonic algae can lead to fish kills in the late summer and fall. This occurs when the large number of algae dies suddenly due to colder air temperatures.
Prevention

After reading that site, I'd say prevention is your best option, rather than chemicals every year. The oak leaves are definitely contributing to the fertile water. Do you have vegetation around the edges of your pond to absorb any of the nutrients? That might be an option too.

Thanks Steve, that helps a lot. I'll hold off on the chemical treatment...I don't want to get into a habit of that. I do have a very heavy tree population lining 2+ sides of the pond, so I know that's contributing. I'll be thinning that this winter. What do you mean by vegetation around the edges? There are no cattails or other vegetation along the edges. Should there be?

Yes, aquatic plants absorb the nutrients in your pond water, the same nutrients that are causing your algae to flourish. By adding some plants to your pond, that should reduce the nutrient levels and hopefully reduce your algae problem. Hope that helps