No two waterbodies are the same. Every lake and pond has unique characteristics influenced by its location, both in a community and the particular region of the country. Whether your waterbody is situated in a bustling urban environment or nestled in a remote rural area, its surroundings shape its characteristics and the problems that can arise.
Furthermore, waterbodies located in southern states that rarely see a true winter often need year-round water quality management. Northern states that experience frigid temperatures typically require comprehensive winterization efforts, such as fountain removal.
Aquatic ecosystems are also impacted by the time of year. Each season brings with it different obstacles that management programs can account for:
Winter
In many parts of the country, the winter months can be harsh on lake and pond shorelines. Ongoing freezing and thawing around the perimeter can cause severe shoreline deterioration, expose pipes and tree roots, and potentially lead to collapse. Fountains and aerators can also be damaged by ice formation.
Spring
As temperatures begin to warm, melted snow or spring showers can transport trash, pet waste, grass clippings, and fertilizers into nearby lakes and stormwater ponds. These organic materials enrich the ecosystem with excess nutrients as they decompose, creating an overly fertile environment for aquatic weeds, algae, and toxic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae).
Summer
Harmful algal blooms that release toxins are most likely to do so in mid to late summer, when water temperatures reach an all-time high. Likewise, summer activities such as boating and fishing can transport nuisance and invasive weeds to other ecosystems, fueling new infestations. Fish kills are common during these months as abundant sunlight depletes the water of essential dissolved oxygen.
Fall
By Autumn, decomposed leaves, sticks, lawn debris, and other organic materials can result in significant muck build-up, potentially clogging stormwater infrastructure and reducing a waterbody’s capacity to hold water. Over time, this can lead to dangerous flooding and, ultimately, accelerates eutrophication—a waterbody’s “aging” process.
Seasonal Pond Management Checklist
Lake and pond management is a year-round responsibility. These ecosystems are ever-changing, but property owners and managers can keep up by implementing proactive strategies ahead of each season:
Spring
- Introduce beneficial vegetation around the shoreline to improve stability and filter stormwater runoff.
- Repair severe erosion damage.
- Inspect stormwater equipment for potential blockages or damage.
- Test water quality (pH, nutrient levels, oxygen).
- Ensure your fountain or aeration system is running properly
Summer
- Apply nutrient management products to help balance water quality.
- Remove undesirable pond weeds with EPA-registered pesticides or a mechanical harvester.
- Properly dispose of grass clippings and yard waste, and limit fertilizer use to help prevent nutrient pollution in lakes and ponds.
- Monitor for signs of fish stress, such as gulping at the surface.
Fall
- Trim shoreline vegetation and remove debris around the waterbody.
- Schedule an oil and seals change to help ensure the longevity of fountains and aerators.
- Apply biological bacteria to help “digest” accumulated bottom muck.
- Conduct hydro-raking to physically remove muck and debris.
- Check your pond for signs of erosion or structural issues.
Winter
- In northern regions, remove fountains and aerators to prevent freeze damage.
- Stock mosquitofish fish or forage fish in warmer climates, game fish such as trout in northern areas, and access fishery habitat.
- Perform bathymetric studies (lake mapping) to inspect waterbody depth and volume.
- Assess your management goals and budget for the coming year.
Maintain Your Lake or Pond Year-Round
It’s important to note that some of these tasks are appropriate to perform no matter the season. You should always consult with an aquatic expert before implementing any solution or strategy. By understanding the unique needs of your waterbody and implementing a tailored, year-round management plan, you can maintain a thriving aquatic environment that helps enhance your property’s value and natural beauty.
Achieve Clean, Beautiful Water
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, 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.
