How Native Plants Support Healthy Lakes and Ponds
Native pond plants can provide food and shelter for beneficial wildlife and help maintain balanced water quality conditions by absorbing excess nutrients. Unfortunately, problems can arise when non-native plants are introduced. Invasive weeds evolved in foreign ecosystems and are not limited by the natural environmental conditions that keep native plants in check. They can quickly overtake lakes and ponds by outcompeting their native counterparts.
The Threat of Invasive Species
In addition to interfering with recreational activities such as swimming and fishing, invasive weeds can clog aeration and stormwater equipment, increase the chance of flooding, elevate safety risks, and endanger native species. Early intervention is essential to prevent long-term consequences to the ecosystem, your infrastructure, and the surrounding property.
Herbicides: A Temporary Fix
EPA-registered aquatic herbicides are well-studied, effective tools to help quickly eliminate nuisance growth without impacting native species. However, herbicides are only a temporary solution; without a comprehensive plan in place, invasive growth typically returns.
Curious About Your Aquatic Vegetation? Start Here
Ongoing proactive monitoring is the key to preventing invasive weed growth. Aquatic experts are trained to distinguish between native and invasive plants and can quickly develop a management plan if an undesirable weed is identified.
Curious about what’s growing in your pond or lake? Scan the QR code or visit www.solitudelakemanagement.com/pond-weed-guide to explore our comprehensive Aquatic Weed ID Guide and learn more about common plants in your area.
Explore Lake Weed Control Solutions
SOLitude Lake Management is a nationwide environmental firm committed to providing sustainable solutions that improve water quality, enhance beauty and preserve natural resources.
SOLitude’s team of aquatic scientists specializes in the development and execution of customized lake, stormwater pond, wetland and fisheries management programs. Services include water quality testing and restoration, algae and aquatic weed control, installation and maintenance of fountains and aeration systems, shoreline erosion control, muck and sediment removal and invasive species management. SOLitude partners with homeowners associations, golf courses, private landowners, businesses and municipalities. SOLitude Lake Management is part of Rentokil Terminix, a leading business services company, operating across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
For more information, visit SOLitude Lake Management at solitudelakemanagement.com, and connect on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
