Lake and Pond Aeration

Aeration is a tool used to maintain dissolved oxygen levels in the water. In stagnant waterbodies, it’s common to observe scum and algae on the surface of the water or experience  “rotten egg” odors, which develop in ecosystems with imbalanced oxygen and nutrient levels. Ponds near urban developments, turfgrass, agriculture, or other types of fertilized land are most susceptible to nutrient pollution – a process where excess phosphorus and nitrogen run off the land into the water. 

Without proper management, this process can become an unhealthy cycle. As scum and algae develop on the water’s surface, they block sunlight from reaching native plants. Eventually, the beneficial plants will die off, contributing more algae-fueling nutrients to the already imbalanced ecosystem.

Aquatic algaecides are a quick way to eradicate algae, but they are not a long-term solution. Algae is stubborn and will return after a temporary algaecide treatment. Pond aeration is a more sustainable tool to support the health and beauty of your waterbody. Dissolved oxygen helps prevent phosphorus and nitrogen from creating poor water quality conditions by converting the excess nutrients to forms that cannot sustain algae. Aeration also circulates the water in different layers and depths. This prevents surface algae accumulation and, as a result, allows desirable aquatic plants to thrive.

Aeration not only helps improve water quality conditions, but it may also reduce the mosquito population around your pond, a side effect that is welcomed by all. It does this by disturbing the pond’s surface so that mosquitoes can’t lay their eggs and supporting the health of frogs, fish, and other wildlife that eat the mosquitoes themselves.

In fact, aquatic species like fish love aeration and need it to survive. They absorb necessary dissolved oxygen from the water around them, and their oxygen needs change based on the time of year. In the summer, a fish’s metabolism speeds up and increases its oxygen requirements, sometimes beyond the capacity available in the pond. During the winter, a fish’s metabolism and need for oxygen decreases; however, reduced sunlight, decaying plant material, and surface freezing can lead to an accumulation of carbon dioxide. During these times of year, the risk of fish kills is especially high. Aeration is a valuable tool to prevent gas build-up and keep dissolved oxygen levels balanced throughout the waterbody.

Finally, pond aeration can be beautiful. The calming sound of the water’s motion creates an outdoor environment that all can enjoy. No matter if the pond is in front of a business, on a golf course, or surrounded by a homeowners community, everyone desires a peaceful spot where they can relax and enjoy themselves. The right aeration system can transform a lake or pond, making it a pleasant feature to highlight a home or property.

Aeration is an important tool in the management of lakes and ponds, but it is just one of many. Like any living being, an aquatic ecosystem is complex and is constantly changing in response to the surrounding environment. To help maintain a balanced state that is less susceptible to unsightly problems, aquatic specialists recommend year-round monitoring and maintenance. Ongoing, eco-friendly solutions include shoreline weed control, buffer management, water quality testing, nutrient remediation, and of course, regular aeration system maintenance.  

If larger problems manifest, such as an invasive species infestation, shoreline collapse, or flooding due to muck build-up, professionals can utilize more advanced tools and solutions to get your waterbody back on track. Contact your lake and pond management professional to learn more about the aeration options available to you, as well as the benefits of an Annual SOL Pro Management Plan.