Pond and Lake Weed Removal and Management

These plants grow under the surface of the water, but may reach the surface once they “top out.” Submerged plants cause the most problems for recreational boating and fishing, often getting caught in finishing lines or boat propellers. Common submerged pond weeds include hydrilla, fanwort, and mudmat all of which can quickly take over any aquatic ecosystem and become a threat to your waterbody’s health.

This type of plant is vascular with roots, but those roots are not established in the sediment below the surface. Typically, their leaves are visible floating on the surface of the water. Floating plants can quickly become a nuisance as they move rapidly and spread over the surface of a lake or pond. The most common invasive floating pond weeds are water hyacinth, water lettuce, and water chestnut.

These are rooted in shallow water but can be seen above the surface. They are typically found along the shoreline and are particularly damaging to shallow wetlands and marshes.  Some common invasive emergent pond weeds are water primrose, torpedo grass, and alligator weed.

Wetlands are some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet and are crucial to natural processes such as filtration and rainfall collection. Unfortunately, their diverse ecosystem also makes them vulnerable to invasive species. Typically, this plant species grows out of the water, in moist soil, or on the shoreline. Invasive wetland plants can also create issues in woodland areas that will ultimately reduce biodiversity. Species such as phragmites, flowering rush, and purple loosestrife are commonly found to invade wetland areas.

The hydro-rake is a floating barge with a backhoe and rake attachments. Also known as mechanical raking, this technique is used to remove rooted vegetation or emergent plants. It can be used in water depths ranging from 18 inches to 10 feet. The technique can also clear muck and debris from the bottom of your waterbody, effectively reducing the overall nutrient load and restoring balance to the ecosystem.

A mechanical harvester or aquatic vegetation cutter can be used for selective pond weed removal. Mechanical harvesting is best suited for removing dense floating vegetation. The harvester contains a cutting mechanism and hydraulic lifts that raise and lower the cutting depth. They are powered by paddle wheels that allow for a high degree of maneuverability and use pontoons to stay afloat. This solution is ideal for season-long control of floating plant species.

While hand pulling isn’t as effective or recommended, it can be ideal for maintenance between harvesting or ponds with minor growth. This method typically works best for floating plants like water chestnuts and spatterdock. Since invasive species spread through fragmentation, hand pulling should be done under the guidance of a professional.

Triploid Grass Carp are a non-native fish species that can be used to naturally restore the ecological balance of your waterbody. These fish species are sterilized, meaning they can’t reproduce or become invasive to your waterbody. Grass carp are capable of consuming 20-100% of their body weight in submerged plants a day, making them an excellent solution for lake weed removal. Although this solution is very effective, it’s important to work with a professional to make sure all permits and regulations are followed.

A downside to Triploid Grass Carp is that they consume all types of aquatic vegetation, therefore, you must monitor the species to ensure that beneficial shoreline vegetation isn’t being affected. Always work with a professional to ensure stocking Grass Carp is legal in your area and is the right solution for your pond and goals.