Pond Boss Forums AQUATIC VEGETATION Controlling unwanted plants controlling algae - solved?

Okay - I'll try to keep this short - I have recently (1 year) aquired a property with a 4.5 acre spring fed pond. Since moving in the pond edges are always covered with a thick green algae (filament type)After trying several type of control methods I found this group and started reading - Thanks to this group - I have also recenly involved my state department of health and enviroment - livestock waste management department - The section just south of me has controlled cattle feeding which is the source for all the nitrogen and phosphates running into my pond and creating the large algae problem - So I think I have isolated the problem. Now my question is what steps should I take once the problem is corrected and the run off is no longer effecting my property? Should I treat with a chemical or should I wait and see what mother nature does? Thanks to this group for helping me to take a good look at what could be causing the problem.
Thanks Guys!
Mike

It depends.. do you mind waiting it out? If not a proper copper application can kill the filamentous algae in less than 5 days and is very cheap.

filamentous algae is usually a spring time problem. As the weather warms you should see it go away. if your pond has a large spring it could keep the water temp lowered enough to have algae problems later in the year. somtimes I see ponds that continue to have filamentous algae problems throughout the summer. some ponds require algae treatments in the spring because it gets so bad that you cant see the water.

If you decide to treat the algae use a chelated copper algacide like Cutrine Plus or K-Tea. there are other products available these two come to mind. I prefer to stay away from copper sulfate. the chelated copper means its coated, which gives it a time release effect. you will get longer algae control with a chelated product than with copper sulfate. also the chelated product in not available all at once (like copper sulfate) so its a bit safer for the fish.

Copper is toxic to fish especially in soft water, so be sure to read the label and only apply recommended rates. DO NOT OVER APPLY COPPER BASED PRODUCTS, unless you hate your fish.

hope this helps