How to Keep Your Pond or Lake Clean Without Toxic Chemicals

There are several ways to keep your pond or lake clean, healthy and full of active fish without toxic pesticides or chemicals. These are the methods we use, and why each one matters.

1. Bioremediation and bio-dredging

Instead of draining, dredging and refilling, bioremediation and bio-dredging remove excess nutrients and pollution in place. Beneficial bacteria digest the sludge, leaf litter and dead algae on the bottom, which removes a major source of the nutrients that feed algae, reduces odor, raises dissolved oxygen and can restore lost depth. Learn about beneficial bacteria and muck reduction.

2. Diatom promotion

Aquaritin feeds native diatoms, which outcompete nuisance algae. Diatoms take up nitrogen and phosphorus more efficiently than algae and release oxygen as they photosynthesize, converting carbon dioxide to oxygen. If phosphorus is not your main problem, a diatom promoter may be all you need. It contains no copper, peroxide, bacteria, dyes or herbicides.

3. Phosphorus binders

PhosClear and EutroSORB WC remove or inactivate phosphorus in the water column, cutting off the food supply of the algae. See the details on each product.

4. Aeration

Whenever possible, add aeration to oxygenate the water, keep it circulating and boost the effectiveness of every other treatment. The right system depends on depth and power: bottom-diffused aeration suits deeper waters, while surface aerators and fountains suit shallow ponds. Read our aeration guide.

5. A plan that combines them

These methods work best together. Beneficial bacteria and diatoms handle nitrogen, muck and what phosphorus remains; binders take phosphorus out directly; and aeration keeps the whole system supplied with oxygen. For a larger project we write specifications and measurable goals, execute the plan, and follow up with third-party water quality testing to confirm the results.

For a free consultation, contact us or call Matt at 571-436-6327.