Algae is typically a summer time problem. 

So are high temperatures. 

This two things in combination make treating an algae problem during very hot periods can be a tricky thing.

The problem is that as the water temperature rises, it's ability to retain dissolved oxygen begins to go down...as does its maximum saturation point of DO.  

When an algaecide is applied in order to kill algae (the same could be said for herbicides on aquatic weeds) the plants will pull oxygen from the water as they die off.

And this can create very rapid oxygen drops and even depletion in a pond environment.  It should go without saying, but this is not good for fish.

Mass fish losses can and do occur because of a poorly timed application of a killing agent like an algaecide.  

The key to avoid having a catastrophic impact on fish is to make sure you have robust aeration going during and after the treatment.  The aeration system should be run 24/7 with no down time.  

If the algae has some mass to it like string algae, you can try to treat it in sections or smaller areas, and over a longer period of time, rather than one broad, all-encompassing application.  In this way, the die off process is staggered and the effect on oxygen is more limited.  

Finally, it may be wise in some instances to just wait and pick a cooler day to treat the algae.  

This is just a friendly reminder to take care when using any kind of algae during periods of hot weather.

Here are some of the more common questions we get about ultrasonic algae control systems.  As always, if you still have questions that are not answered here, please reach out and we'll do our best to help.

For being such a simple type of plant, algae sure can be a stubborn little creature to get rid of, and although it’s a very natural and environmentally important plant to aquasystems, that doesn’t mean a pond owner has to like it.

I get asked about pond dye a lot and I really do like the stuff.  

I don't necessarily ever recommend it above aeration, beneficial bacteria, or even chemicals in some cases because pond dye may not be powerful enough to turn a pond or weed problem around.

But it can surely slow them down or help these other methods work better.

Plus it's safe...made out of non-toxic, food grade ingredients, it's an eco-friendly way to help.

You can check out our current line of pond dye here.

We have finally turned the corner towards summer!

Last week we were in the 70's, now we're hitting the 90's daily.  

So, I uploaded this short video on what to be thinking about right now as the temps go up.

One thing I didn't mention is to keep a cool drink nearby!

Welcome to summer...

Here's a summary from the EPA on some of the things one can do to prevent or manage a toxic algae bloom in their pond.  The accompanying video, which is kind of long for me, goes over these various suggestions (all of which I agree with) and discusses them in more detail.  I also mention a few things that were not included that may be of help such as beneficial microbials.

You can review these recommendations on the EPA website via this link: https://www.epa.gov/cyanohabs