Dredging

One of the primary factors that contributes to loss of depth and volume is shoreline erosion. Poorly maintained shorelines can crumble and collapse over relatively short periods of time, spilling sediment into the water and creating steep embankments. It’s common for stakeholders to bioengineer a new shoreline alongside dredging efforts. During this process, professionals repurpose some of the dredged muck to reshape the bank of the waterbody. It is held in place using a knitted mesh material called SOX Solutions for years of stabilization. The material can then be planted with beneficial buffer plants that establish deep root systems for added durability.

Another problem that contributes to the gradual loss of depth is nuisance weeds and algae. This growth is unsightly and, when out of control, can wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems by causing stagnation, crowding out native plants and animals, and contributing to poor water quality conditions. Moreover, when plants and algae die off, they sink and accumulate at the bottom. As they decompose, they release nutrients that fuel more nuisance growth. It’s essential to prevent this negative cycle using proactive solutions like nutrient remediation. Professionals can use a variety of naturally-occurring products such as Phoslock and Alum to capture excess nitrogen and phosphorus from the water column which helps improve water quality. Nutrient mitigation techniques can be further enhanced by introducing floating fountains or submersed aeration systems that support circulation and desirable oxygen levels in the water column.

Preventative management is highly impactful and can help extend the lifespan of a waterbody for years or decades, but even the most responsibly maintained ecosystems will still age. Luckily, with consistent water quality testing, maintenance, and monitoring, stakeholders are better able to predict when muck and sediment will need to be removed. In many cases, hydro-rakes can be used instead of dredges to conduct “spot treatments” in coves or high-priority areas such as around pipes and stormwater drains. Hydro-raking is similar to dredging in some respects, but typically requires less time and funds. Hydro-raking is also less intrusive in the ecosystem because it does not displace native wildlife or disturb the shoreline. In addition to hydro-raking, professionals can apply biological bacteria. These beneficial bacteria naturally consume muck and decomposing materials at the bottom of the waterbody and help improve the overall health of the water column.

Lakes and ponds play integral roles in our communities by collecting stormwater, supporting agriculture and drinking water needs, sheltering beautiful native wildlife, and creating opportunities to connect and interact with nature. It can be easy to take the many benefits of water for granted—until they’re gone. The best way to thwart the degeneration of our valued waterbodies is by implementing sustainable practices before problems like excess weed growth or flooding get out of hand.