Restoring Water Quality in Community Pond
Water Quality Case Study
Location and Acreage:
Pleasant Hill, CA
Project Manager:
Gary Hoover, Aquatic Specialist and Business Development Consultant
Key Staff:
Ben Chen, Fisheries Biologist
Luis Alvarez, Aquatic Specialist
Site Description:
A small community pond in Pleasant Ridge, CA, was suffering from prolific algae production, offensive odors, poor water quality and disturbing fish kills. The homeowners association that owned the pond was receiving complaints and was at a loss with how to reverse the displeasing water quality issues they were experiencing at this focal point in the neighborhood.
Scope of Work:
Nutrient remediation, water quality testing, fish stocking and biological augmentation were performed in a man-made, membrane- and concrete-lined pond in a high-end Northern California community association.
Project Description:
To gain insight into the unique chemistry of the pond, SOLitude conducted a series of water quality tests. The reports revealed a high level of nutrients present, which were responsible for fueling undesirable algae production. Often, nutrients enter lakes and ponds in the form fertilizer, trash, grass clippings, dog waste and other organic materials that are swept up in stormwater runoff. Known sources of nutrient loading in the community were mitigated.
Based on the test results, a strategy was designed to restore ecological balance in the waterbody using an array of sustainable tools, including beneficial bacteria supplementation and re-seeding with desirable native macrophyte species. Finally, the pond was stocked with native fish species.
With close monitoring, the conditions of the pond turned around in a matter of weeks. Today, the pond system is teaming with life - fish, turtles and birds abound. Beauty has been restored. The water is crystal clear, healthy and there are zero odors. The HOA and property manager are ecstatic.
