An algae bloom is a common problem in lakes and ponds of all sizes. Excessive algae growth is a sign that the ecosystem of your lake or pond is out of balance, and it can be challenging to remediate. Effective, long-term algae control addresses the underlying problems, maintains healthy nutrient and bacteria levels, and monitors the ecosystem to prevent blooms from recurring.
What Causes Algae?
Phytoplankton are microscopic algae present in any aquatic ecosystem. In a well-managed lake or pond, they help produce nutrients and maintain the health of fish and other native flora and fauna. However, when a lake or pond’s ecosystem is out of balance, it can lead to unchecked growth of algae populations, known as blooms.
Sunlight and rising water temperatures create the ideal conditions for algae blooms. They also need slow-moving water and nutrients like nitrates and phosphates.
Is Algae Harmful to Humans and Pets?
While many types are perfectly safe, certain types of algae and cyanobacteria — the blue-green algae you see in ponds — form harmful algal blooms (HABs).
People and animals can become exposed to cyanobacteria in ponds in many ways, risking severe damage to their health. These blooms produce toxins that may cause skin, stomach and respiratory issues. Toxic algae symptoms in dogs include gastrointestinal and neurological problems.
If your homeowners association, country club or other facilities maintain a pond or lake with an algae bloom, you could expose yourself to these toxins by eating fish caught in contaminated water, breathing the air in that area, or obtaining drinking water from it. You can prevent algae bloom exposure by following federal regulations surrounding the safety of recreationally caught seafood and various sources of drinking water.
What Should You Do If You See Algae in a Pond?
If you know or suspect that your pond or lake has an algae problem, do not drink from or swim in it. Keep pets out of the area to ensure their safety, and call a professional. A specialist will test the water and implement solutions to address algae growth quickly and minimize risk.
Unsure how to spot problematic algae growth? Algae blooms tend to look like pea soup or spilled paint. They can be blue, green, gray, red, brown or many other colors.
Effective Algae Bloom Treatment and Prevention
Since toxic algae blooms can spread rapidly, early intervention is key. Fixing HABs can include a combination of product, mechanical, physical and biological interventions to correct the underlying problem that led to the growth. Adding an aerator or fountain and introducing beneficial fish populations are other options. Pond algae toxins also need to be controlled with ongoing monitoring to prevent future blooms.
At Aquatic Environment Consultants (AEC), we specialize in managing pond ecosystems. Our services include pond water testing in Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Delaware.
Trust AEC for Algae Prevention and Monitoring
If you suspect your lake or pond is experiencing a harmful algae bloom, contact AEC right away. We can provide testing and consulting to understand the severity of the problem and develop a plan. Request your free consultation today to get started with water quality testing and an HAB assessment. Our experts will help restore your lake or pond to a healthy ecosystem.