Lake Algae Control & Algae Treatment
When aquatic weeds are left to grow uncontrolled, they can produce issues such as interference with fishing and other watersports, lower dissolved oxygen levels, intrusion with water flow, harm fish and other wildlife, and even disrupt boat traffic. Warm weather, imported weed species, and high nutrient levels in most lakes, ponds, and waterways only add to the problem. Fortunately, The Lake Doctors, Inc. is here to offer effective lake algae control services. We specialize in keeping your lake, pond, or waterway in excellent condition all year round with our aquatic weed management programs. By using top-quality materials, specialized equipment, and innovative techniques, we provide an effective cure for waterway ills without affecting fish, wildlife, or desirable weed species.
Our annual water management program is designed to cure existing problems (usually within one to three months) and prevent unhealthy and unsightly weed and algae growth in the future. With monthly inspections and treatments performed by our specially trained and licensed aquatic biologists will give you the beautiful lake or waterway that you deserve. Since 1979, we have successfully served homeowners associations, developers, municipalities, golf courses, mobile home communities, and other residential and commercial property owners. For a free aquatic inspection, report, and water management proposal, call The Lake Doctors, Inc. toll-free at 1 (800) 666-LAKE.
Questions & Answers
Where Does The Lake Doctors, Inc. Offer their Water Management Programs?
The Lake Doctors, Inc. has nine offices serving all of Florida, southern Georgia, Alabama and Louisiana, South Carolina, and coastal North Carolina, and central and southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky. Other offices may soon be opening.
Our Lake or Pond is Not in Your Service Area, What Can Lake Doctors Do for Us?
The Lake Doctors, Inc. may be able to help you or your association maintain its own lake or pond with our easy-to-use products. We will also make recommendations to you based upon the information that you give us about the size, depth, water quality, and weeds in your lake or pond.
How Can I Get Rid of the Weeds in My Pond?
In areas serviced by The Lake Doctors, Inc., you may call us for a FREE aquatic survey that will outline the specific weed and algae problems you have, along with a proposal for service that will address those concerns. However, if you are in an area not serviced by The Lake Doctors, Inc., or plan on treating the lake or pond yourself, then it is necessary to correctly identify the weeds before purchasing products for their control. Unfortunately, there is no single “magic bullet” when it comes to controlling aquatic weeds. Different herbicides are required for different weeds. For immediate help in identifying your weed problems, go to our Weed Identification page. There, you will find photos of the weeds, along with a brief description of each, and some general control recommendations. You may also wish to send us a weed sample for us to identify for you at no charge. If so, call us at 1 (800) 666-5253 and we will give you some guidelines for sending us your weed sample.
What if I Don’t Know What the Weeds are Growing in my Lake or Pond?
While it is necessary to identify what weeds you have, we can make it easy for you. The first step is to click on our Weed Identification page, which will help you determine your specific weed problems. We also offer FREE “Aquatic Plant Identification Tips” upon request, courtesy of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, as well as books that not only help identify weeds but also cover all aspects of ponds. Finally, the Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, University of Florida is an excellent source for identifying aquatic weeds and plants.
What About the “Weed-Eating” Grass Carp?
The sterile Triploid Grass Carp has proven to be a valuable aid in achieving control of certain weeds, although it will not eat algae and some weeds. In areas serviced by The Lake Doctors, Inc., we offer an integrated approach to water management that includes both aquatic weed control and stocking of Triploid Grass Carp. In Florida, a permit is required, as well as a “fish barrier” in many areas. Lake Doctors will help with the application, supply the fish, and install the necessary fish barriers.
Will the Treatments by Lake Doctors or Aquatic Products I Apply Kill or Harm Fish & Wildlife?
The Lake Doctors, Inc. uses EPA-approved herbicides and algaecides that will not harm fish and wildlife when used as directed by the product label. Treatment techniques can be used to further reduce any possible harm to fish or wildlife. These may include measuring oxygen prior to treatments, running the water pH, determining temperature, and measuring hardness of water before using copper-based products.
How Long Does it Take to Get Results?
When treating algae, you can sometimes see the effects within hours! Usually, algae treatments achieve full results within 3-10 days. When treating aquatic weeds, some herbicides such as Reward, Aquathol Super K, or Nautique will cause visible effects on the weeds within 7-14 days. Other slower-acting but excellent products, such as Sonar will take four to eight weeks or longer to achieve results. However, those results will sometimes be effective for one year or longer.
What Happens to the Treated Weeds & Algae?
Usually, they will turn tan or brown (sometimes even white or pink with Sonar products), sink to the bottom, and slowly decompose. Since most aquatic weeds are 90-95% water, little residue is left. However, some emergent weeds, such as cattails, torpedo grass, and woody brush, such as primrose willow will take weeks or even months to decompose. In those cases, you may wish to cut and remove the dead weeds with special cutters and rakes available for that purpose to provide a faster, more manicured appearance to the pond’s edge.
Will Treatments Control the Mosquitoes?
No, not directly. The aquatic herbicides and algaecides are designed to be nontoxic to most things, except for the target weeds. However, the reduction in weeds and algae will allow small fish, such as gambusia to more effectively control the mosquito larvae. Also, in areas serviced by The Lake Doctors, Inc., we may be able to offer a supplemental program to control mosquito and midge larvae. Our online catalog offers mosquito control products.
Would a Fountain or Aerator Help Control the Algae & Weeds?
Although very beneficial and often recommended, a fountain or aerator may not cure or prevent some weed and algae problems. However, they offer long-term improvement in water quality and circulation that can be extremely beneficial for the long-term health of your lake or pond. If you are looking primarily for aesthetics or beauty, then a fountain may be recommended. If you are looking for a combination of biological effectiveness and aesthetic improvement, then a surface aerator may be what you want. A third type of system, called air diffusion systems, produces air bubbles at the bottom and provides maximum circulation, oxygenation, and improvement in water quality but with no significant display. The Lake Doctors, Inc. will suggest a fountain or aerator based upon your needs. Installation is also available in areas we service.
Will Treatments Kill the Bacteria & Germs, Making My Pond Safe for Swimming?
No, but The Lake Doctors, Inc. can, as part of your water management program, test the water periodically for bacteria, such as coliform, an indicator of pollution. You may also purchase a bacteria test kit to test your own lake or pond water. Remember, clear, clean-looking water can be polluted. Conversely, green or slimy-looking water can be safe for swimming.
How Can I Find Out More About The Lake Doctors, Inc.?
For a FREE aquatic survey in areas where we provide service, call us at 1 (800) 666-5253 and we will be glad to help you. You may also email us at [email protected] with any questions or requests you may have. You may request a FREE aquatic survey, FREE newsletter, and/or a FREE Plant Identification Booklet. We will provide specific recommendations either for service or for products that you can use yourself for cost-effective results.
If you are interested in learning more about our lake management services, we encourage you to contact our company today at 1 (800) 666-5253 to schedule a free aquatic survey. We would be happy to answer any questions you have regarding our aquatic weed treatments. We serve clients in Florida, Ohio, and South Carolina.
