If your lake has become murky blue or green instead of clear and shimmery, like it used to be, you might have an algae problem. Algae is a growing concern plaguing many lake and pond owners — in fact, algae outbreaks increased by 18 percent between 2018 and 2019 alone. In this guide, we’ll discuss the causes of algae in ponds and lakes, as well as the hazards associated with algal blooms.
What Causes Algae in Lakes and Ponds?
Often turning bodies of water green, algae is a common concern throughout the Mid-Atlantic. At AEC Lakes, we offer long-term solutions to protect the health and beauty of your lake or pond.
What Is Algae, and Why Should You Care?
Algae growth is a naturally occurring part of most aquatic ecosystems. In moderation, it plays a role in oxygen production and serves as a food source for aquatic life. However, it can grow out of control, forming unsightly mats, discolored water or harmful blooms.
What Causes Algae Bloom in Lakes and Ponds?
Several factors contribute to excessive algae growth, including:
- Nutrient runoff: Fertilizers, lawn care products and agricultural runoff carry phosphorus and nitrogen into bodies of water, fueling algae blooms and leading to out-of-control growth.
- Stormwater pollution: Septic leaks, animal waste and erosion introduce organic matter that feeds algae, leading to excess growth.
- Sunlight and stagnant water: Algae thrives in still, sunlit water, and shallow areas with little water movement are especially vulnerable.
- Water temperature: Warm temperatures and seasonal stratification can accelerate growth and blooms.
- Turbidity: Suspended sediments can choke beneficial plant growth and give algae a competitive edge.
Most causes of algae in lakes and ponds are a combination of natural and human-influenced factors.
Are Algae Blooms Dangerous?
Some algae are harmless, but they can pose health and ecological risks, including:
- Harmful algal blooms (HABs): Certain species, such as cyanobacteria or blue-green algae, produce toxins that can harm pets, wildlife and even humans.
- Dead zones: Dense blooms block sunlight and reduce oxygen levels, which can lead to fish die-offs and the death of beneficial aquatic plants.
- Unpleasant odor or appearance: Algae often creates foul smells and unattractive water surfaces.
How to Prevent and Control Algae Growth
While there is no quick fix for algae, there are proven, sustainable strategies to keep it in check:
- Limit runoff with proper shoreline management.
- Install or maintain diffused aeration to improve water circulation.
- Monitor water quality seasonally.
- Use appropriate products to reduce nutrient load.
- Remove nutrient-rich sediment when necessary.
DIY efforts like surface raking are time-consuming and don’t address underlying causes. Our algae control services can help you develop a solution that addresses the underlying cause of algae in your specific pond or lake.
Why Trust AEC Lakes?
Since 1987, AEC has been solving algae problems across the Mid-Atlantic. Here’s why property owners choose us:
- Expert diagnosis of what’s causing your algae and how to treat it.
- Customized treatment plans for each lake or pond.
- Science-backed tools, including GPS mapping, water testing and smart aeration.
- Full-service care including permitting, treatment and long-term monitoring.
- Educated support to help you avoid recurring issues.
Take the Next Step Toward an Algae-Free Lake or Pond
If you’re dealing with algae problems or attempting to prevent them, you may be facing a serious challenge without the help of an expert. What causes algae to grow in ponds and lakes is generally a combination of factors. Before you waste valuable time and money attempting to tackle algae on your own, talk with the experts at Aquatic Environment Consultants. We deliver results quickly with as little investment as possible.
For more than 30 years, we have worked with pond and lake owners to ensure the health and vitality of their water quickly and with as little investment as possible. We can help you figure out the source of your algae growth and devise a smart treatment and prevention plan to keep your pond or lake thriving for years to come.
Contact us today for a consultation.