Fisheries Management

Building The Fish Pond of Your Dreams By Following These Guidelines

Pursuing your dreams is an incredibly gratifying experience that has a way of bringing out the best in yourself. For some of us, that involves creating a trophy fishery where kids and adults alike can spend time together bonding in the essence of nature. Spending a day on the water with loved ones, in pursuit of the next fish that family and friends will be talking about over dinner or around a campfire, can provide just enough motivation to keep someone from settling when it comes to building the pond of their dreams.

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Developing A High-Quality Fishery May Prove Risky If You Don't Understand The Facts

Developing a high-quality fishery comes with a high risk of failure. Although this landowner did an outstanding job buying the correct property, as well as constructing what appeared to be a great pond, he was still several years away from understanding how successful the project would be. This lack of certainty, teamed with his passionate desire to reach his goals, motivated him to minimize assumptions and make good decisions.

Getting Started: Fish Stocking & Fish Feeding

Fast forward to the spring of 2016. Water temperatures were beginning to rise thanks to the warm southern winds, and the pond was prime to become a productive fishery. Golden Shiners and Fathead Minnows were stocked in April to help the forage base establish. To provide the forage with exponential growth, the pond was fertilized to produce a plankton bloom. Using a Secchi disk, the owner monitored the bloom and added additional fertilizer as needed. Using two automatic fish feeders, over one and a half tons of fish feed was fed to the forage base that first summer. To help support the productivity from the fertilizing and feeding program, a bottom diffused aeration system was also installed.

Stock Fish to Establish A Forage Base

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Automatic Fish Feeder Installation

Supporting Fish Life Using Supplemental Feeding

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A Trophy Fishery In The Making:

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Combating A Pond Leak Using Bentonite

The first year the pond was on a fertilizing program, we took a slightly less aggressive fertilizing approach, and developed and maintained a bloom of approximately 24 inches. Much of this relaxed fertilizing approach was related to a slow leak that was discovered near the pond’s outflow. When building the pond, the clay soil around the bottom drain outflow pipe was not sealed as well as necessary. As a result, the head pressure of the pond at full pool, teamed with a slight drought, made it obvious that the pond was leaking. A leaking pond was not part of the dream for this landowner, and resolving the leak was paramount. Since the location of the leak was known, the best solution, in this case, was to add a slurry of bentonite to the water in that specific area of the pond. After two applications and less than a pallet of bagged bentonite, the golfball-sized leak sealed up tight, allowing the owner to sleep a bit easier.

Remaining Patient

Based on the owner’s goals and his willingness to be patient, the plan was to let the forage base establish for an entire year prior to stocking Largemouth Bass. Although waiting an entire year is not necessary for all landowners, there are times when it is advantageous. The benefits of waiting an entire year can include the production of more forage fish per acre of water. Additionally, when growing species such as golden shiners, the additional time helps them to achieve a larger size, which can cater to the forage needs of bigger Largemouth bass.

Animal Predation & Mother Nature Provide Challenges

A notable downside to waiting a year is the vulnerability to Mother Nature, who always seems to be waiting to take advantage of a pond full of forage fish. During the first growing season at this site, in particular, the owner dealt with water bugs, frogs, blue herons, great egrets, king fishers and cormorants—all trying to take advantage of the abundant forage base. Since this owner was building a home within a hundred feet of the pond, he was in a position to keep a close eye on the fishery and ensure that the forage base was on track, and mitigate the predation issues as they arose.

Water Bugs

Frogs

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Great Egret

King Fisher

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Proactive Lake & Pond Management & An Ongoing Fisheries Management Plan Is Key

Five Benefits of Feeding Fish with Automatic Fish Feeders

Fish Feeders Feed An Aggressive Amount Of Fish

For the entire growing season of 2016, the pond maintained a high-quality plankton bloom, and fish feeders fed an aggressive amount of high-quality fish feed. By that fall, the forage base had reached significant biomass. Throughout the water column, and across the entire pond, you could visually see forage fish everywhere you looked.

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Stocking The Proper Largemouth Bass

With the forage fish on track, it came time to decide what type of Largemouth bass to stock. The owner had two good options. One option was to stock rapid-growing fingerlings in the early summer of 2017. Rapid-growing fingerlings have the greatest chance to reach their full potential, in part, because they would grow faster in the owner’s pond than they would at a fish hatchery, since fish hatcheries grow their bass at much higher densities with less available forage. A second option would be to stock an all-female population. All-female populations are desirable because they give the owner more control over the numbers of predators, and, as result, help reduce assumptions made when managing the fishery. The downside to all-female populations is that most female bass are grown at relatively high densities at a hatchery, and often do not reach their full size potential

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Stocking Female Bass Was The Ideal Strategy

Despite the limitations some owners can experience when stocking all female bass, this fish stocking strategy best met this particular pond owner’s goals of regularly catching five-pound bass when fishing—and having the potential to catch bass in the eight-pound range.

Thanks to the heavy biomass of forage fish, 24-month-old all-female bass were stocked at a relatively heavy rate of 40 fish per acre in the spring of 2017. They were grown on fish feed in the hatchery for the first two years of their lives and averaged one and a half pounds each when stocked. Using GoogleEarth, we accurately determined the owner’s pond was four acres and required 160 female bass.

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Electrofishing Provided Valuable Data Like Bass Growth Rate

In October, just six months after stocking the bass, the fishery was electrofished to better gauge what was going well, and what was in need of attention. To the owner’s enjoyment, the bass averaged three pounds, with an average growth rate of one and a half pounds per bass, or a quarter pound of growth each month. The average relative weight (Wr) was 123, and average length was 16.2 inches. The top performing bass recaptured weighed 4.7 pounds and was 17.9 inches long. The bass looked great and the owner is currently on track to achieve his long-term goals.

Providing Anglers With Truly Exceptional Fish

Based on the recent positive results and high odds of success, the owner now has the option to take his foot off of the gas and let his bass growth rates slow. This gets to where you are going as a fast management approach, followed by the opportunity to coast for five to seven years, is an incredibly effective approach to creating an action-packed fishery for friends and family, while still meeting a realistic budget. For those with additional discretionary income, as well as loftier goals, fish growth can continue to be pursued at an aggressive rate throughout the life of your bass to provide anglers with access to truly exceptional fish.

Adding Aquatic Vegetation Cover For Fish

Although this owner’s pond is doing great, it still has challenges that it must overcome, as expected. The aquatic vegetation that was planted two years ago has struggled to establish. Attention needs to be given to the aquatic plants so that the forage base has a better source of refuge. Getting the aquatic plants to establish will also help improve the angling experience since fishing through or around vegetation can add another layer of enjoyment to the fishing experience of an avid fisherman.

Tackling Invasive Green Sunfish

The most disappointing issue the fishery is currently facing is the presence of green sunfish. At some point over the past two years, green sunfish entered the waterbody and have successfully spawned. Based on the watershed, the sunfish most likely entered from upstream. Eradicating them from the system is not practical based on their numbers, but with some active management their numbers can be suppressed.

Don't Give Up On Your Fishery Dream

Despite these hurdles, hard work and dedication have started to pay off for this particular land owner. He set the bar high, and then pursued his dream, regardless of what others thought of his big ideas. Looking back at the process, it is incredibly gratifying to see someone work hard for several years to achieve a goal. Although the process has taken around five years from the time he started searching for the right property, he is in a great position compared to where he might be if impatience took over. If he had instead opted for the easy route, he could have purchased the wrong piece of land or bought a property that already had an existing, yet broken fishery. With a bright future ahead, and much of the hard work behind him, this pond owner can start spending quality time fishing with family and friends in a setting that will hold a special place in their hearts for generations.

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Improved Water Quality Significantly

Shannon and Hunter are very professional and take a personal interest in taking the best care of our pond and more importantly, our pet koi fish. They have improved the water quality significantly and we are very pleased with their customer service.

Janet Stallions

Private Landowner, VA

Pond Has Never Looked Better

Josh did a fantastic job on our pond project. Very professional and paid close attention to the details. Our pond has never looked better and already seeing an increase in size and number of fish. Highly recommend this company for your pond and lake management needs!

Michael Chase

Texas

Recommend Without Hesitation

I have used SOLitude’s services for about five years. They have turned my pond into a very fine little fishery for bass and bluegills. They have also made the pond much more attractive. SOLitude’s consultants check my pond on a regular basis and I have found them all to be knowledgeable, friendly, and very service oriented. For any landowner looking to improve the appearance and the fishing productivity of their pond, I would recommend SOLitude without hesitation.

Edmund Cowart

Private Landowner, New Ulm, TX

Thanks to SOLitude!

My stocked pond looks better than it has looked in 45 years, thanks to SOLitude!

Donnie Manry

Private Landowner, Bryan, TX

A+ Service

A reliable company that you can trust. A+ service. Keeps our lakes stocked up with fish and algae-free throughout the year.

Julio Trejo

Miami-Dade County, FL

Thorough Assessment Of My Pond

Received prompt and thorough assessment of a pond on my rural property. Received the advice I needed to prevent algae and for improving conditions for fish. They have good educational material on their website that is free.

Susan Poole

Private Landowner, Callahan, FL

Healthy Water Quality & Fish

SOLitude has been managing our lake for the past two years. Through their efforts, the lake’s water quality has improved tremendously. Even with one of the hottest and dryest seasons I received nothing but compliments on the water clarity as well as positive feedback from fishermen about the abundance of healthy fish.

Darren Brooks

District Manager, Parker, CO

SOLitude Takes Sincere Interest In Our Needs

Noel has been helping our fly fishing club stock rainbows and cut bows in our river and lake. He takes a sincere interest in our needs, understands our unique situation, and always delivers great fish.

Harold Klausner

Private Landowner, Pine, CO

SOLitude Helped Us Achieve Our Community Goals

As the manager of wetlands and open water for my community, I work with SOLitude Lake Management closely. They have helped us define our vision and achieve our goals. Every wetland area and body of water has different uses and different needs. SOLitude understands that and ensures those needs are met all the while keeping the budget in mind. We have annual fishing tournaments and they come out and talk with the anglers, explaining what we’ve done during the past year and what our future steps will be. Management of wildlife and waters is an ongoing and long-term commitment, SOLitude understands this. They have a dedicated staff that not only manages these areas but also helps educate their clients.

Robert Payne

HOA Chairman, Warrenton, VA

December 8, 2014

Our Fishery Is In It’s Best Condition Ever

Thank you to SOLitude for all your help at our Fishing Club. Our hydrilla problem is practically non-existent now. The fish survey you completed for us, the recommendations on slot sizes, and the stocking and feeding program you developed are producing outstanding results. Our club’s fishery is in the best condition it has ever been! Your presentation to our stockholders at our annual meeting was extremely well received. We are getting ready to enhance our fish attractors as suggested. We appreciate that a management program was developed that fits within our budget and that you are available to talk with us when we have questions. We look forward to continuing our association with SOLitude.

John McCracken

Fishing Club President, West Point, VA

February 23, 2015

A Huge Improvement with SOLitude

I wanted to let you know how pleased we are with the results of the algae treatment. We noticed a huge improvement very quickly, and at this point, the pond looks really, really great. Also, the fish are thriving – some of the bass are over a foot, and the Bluegills have also gotten big. We are just thrilled. Thank you so much for your responsiveness.

Gwen Goodkin

Private Landowner, Charlottesville, VA

June 16, 2015

From an Eyesore to Thriving Ecosystem

In one season, SOLitude Lake Management turned the two lakes on my Virginia property from dead, weed-infested, eyesores into thriving, fish-filled, ecosystems – and they have maintained them as such ever since!

Angus Yates

Private Landowner, Middleburg, VA

September 17, 2015

Excellent Pond and Fisheries Management Experts!

After I had to drain my pond in 2010 to fix the dam, I took the opportunity to start from scratch. I contacted SOLitude to help guide my long-term management. Two years after my original stocking, we electroshocked for the first time. Based on the electroshock survey and Dave Beasley’s advice, I restocked 10,000 larger bluegills. My friends call me when they have “Daddy day” because they know they can come to my pond and their kids will catch bluegill bigger than my hand until they get tired of it. After 4 years, the bass are reaching 6 pounds, and in an hour, enough heavy bass can be caught that would beat a full day’s fishing on any lake in the region. Without SOLitude and Dave Beasley, despite all my research, my pond would be in an ever-worsening downward spiral. Now SOLitude and annual electrofishing surveys to keep me on track are a permanent part of my pond management plan.

Marc Daymude

Private Landowner, Cameron, NC

October 7, 2015

What A Great Company!

When looking online for a new fish feeder, we had unpleasant experiences with two local fisheries. I decided to call a feeder manufacturer in San Antonio, who recommended SOLitude Lake Management. They were terrific! Paul Dorsett called me directly and was so kind and helpful. He arranged for a feeder to be delivered and set up for us. Although Paul was out of town, he sent his “ace” out, Ryan Young. Ryan and Alex Harrison were efficient, answered all questions, and were very nice young men. Paul even followed up to make certain that everything went smoothly. What a great company! Customer service is what it’s all about these days and SOLitude Lake Management knows exactly that.

Cindy & Jim Bandy

Private Landowners, Centerville, TX

August 22, 2016

In Awe of SOLitude’s Knowledge

I want to thank you all for coming out and for an excellent report and meeting. SOLitude’s knowledge about the industry and all of the different species, habitats, and needs was impressive. We were sitting there with our mouths open in awe of SOLitude’s command of the subject. You all really know your species and their requirements. It was excellent!

Ken Oristaglio

Fort Pickett, Blackstone, VA

June 7, 2017

Proof Is In The Pudding

Paul Dorsett and the rest of the team at SOLitude have done an absolutely wonderful job in helping us to create Lake Willis! In just a few short years we have gone from having just a few baitfish and perch, to catching a nearly 9-pound bass (our new record). Now if we could just have more time to fish as recommended, we could take out the 300 fish that need to come out. As far as we are concerned, we followed SOLitude’s recommendations and our fish have averaged growing of 2 pounds per year…proof is in the pudding!

Weston Willis and Family

Private Landowner, Abilene, TX

June 9, 2017

A Truly Valuable Investment

We began with two small lakes that were never managed 10 years ago. With SOLitude’s help and expertise we expanded both lakes from 2 acres to 6 acres and began a monthly management program. We went from a spotty fish population to trophy bass with some over 10 pounds! SOLitude is efficient and really cares about the lake ecosystem. Seeing my three-year-old granddaughter catch her first bass makes the investment truly valuable. Thanks, SOLitude.

Ric Campo

Private Landowner, Houston, TX

October 12, 2017

From Frustrating to 100% Fishable

When we hired SOLitude, our 12-acre lake was about 1/3 full of lily pads and hydrilla which were frustrating to the fish. Within 4-6 months, the lake became 100% fishable and the coloring and bloom were much more attractive. The recent addition of 8 or so built brush piles has added much-needed structure for bait fish and is now a great target that is producing bass on every other cast! A very common afternoon will produce 100 fish a day.

Darrell Hernandez

Private Landowner, Athens, TX

April 5, 2018

The Best Choice Is SOLitude Lake Management

If you’d like to manage your waters (or watershed) professionally – then the best choice is SOLitude Lake Management. If you fish, then it’s more important. I had the good fortune to fish a property managed by SOLitude BEFORE I needed a pond management company…those excellent results made my final choice easy. I’m sure that every firm is good – but if the phrase “by fishermen for fishermen!” rings true with you – then there is one choice: SOLitude Lake and Pond Management. They care and it shows.

Carlton Howard III

Private Landowner, Raleigh, NC

June 18, 2018

Grateful for Your Team

I am grateful for your promptness, standard of quality, and for bringing my pond back to the beauty that it is supposed to be.

Michelle S.

Property Manager, Jacksonville, FL

Definitely Using SOLitude Again!

This year’s spraying was the most effective we have ever had. We will definitely use your company again next year!

Lesa C.

Lake Resident, Indiana

SOLitude Made A Huge Difference

Thank you for jumping on our request to have the weeds looked at and treated. It has made a huge difference in the short couple of weeks since the crew was out spraying. All of us on the SW corner of the lake greatly appreciate the approval and quick execution of the treatment!

Matt P.

Lake Resident, Michigan

Nothing But Compliments for SOLitude

SOLitude has been managing our lake for the past two years. Through their efforts, the lake’s water quality has improved tremendously. Even with one of the hottest and dryest seasons, I received nothing but compliments on the water clarity, as well as positive feedback from fishermen about the abundance of healthy fish.

Darren Brooks

City District Manager, Parker, CO

Highly Trained Professionals

SOLitude has the manpower to handle all jobs, large or small, and the expertise to answer any questions. They care about their clients, which is easy to see when observing the quality of work provided by them during every visit. SOLitude is the team of highly trained professionals you want to maintain the waterbodies on your property.

Matthew Clem

Golf Superintendent, Fort Myers, FL

Satisfied & Grateful for Great Service

SOLitude is an excellent company that has been servicing my lake for several years. Dominic has been overseeing our program for over 20 years. His experience, knowledge, professionalism, and integrity are outstanding. Under his leadership, our lake has improved dramatically and it continues to get better every year. Additionally, Amanda has played a key role since she joined SOLitude. She always promptly replies to my inquiries and provides outstanding customer service. We are completely satisfied and grateful for the great service we receive and the results are clearly evident in our beautiful lake.

Steve Slocum

Lake Association President, Ashburnham, MA

Our Clear Lake Wouldn’t Be Possible Without SOLitude

Our Lake Association believes that good service and good results deserve a positive review. We’ve been doing business with SOLitude for about 25 years. The results of their treatments are quite obvious because of the amount of recreational use our lake gets during the summer months that wouldn’t be possible without the weed control SOLitude provides. Back in 1986, the lake became almost unusable because of the invasive weed problem. After two years of treatments, the lake became what it is today – a beautiful body of water that is usable for all summer recreation. SOLitude has been great to do business with. Their people are responsive to any issues and are always ready and willing to help in any way they can. We are happy to recommend them to any lake or pond association that may need assistance dealing with weed problems.

Frank Fiorentino

Lake Association President, Ashburnham, MA

My Pond Is Finally Nice to Look At

This company is amazing! I called and explained the issues I was having with my pond, and Josh came out and assessed my pond. After doing so, he was able to put together a regiment that helped bring my pond back to where it is nice to look at! I would recommend this company to all of my friends and family!

William Youngblood

Private Landowner, TX

Created An Oasis All Can Enjoy

Our community has a one-acre pond that SOLitude has managed for our 200 homes development. They have done a fine job in maintaining the health of the pond so that people can fish and enjoy the surrounding area, wildlife, and gardens. It is a true oasis in a declining area of green spaces for all to enjoy.

Andrea Kowaleski

Property Manager, Marriottsville, MD

SOLitude Came to Our Rescue

When SOLitude came to our rescue, our pond was covered in water lettuce. As each month went by, the pond became clearer and clearer until now it is completely clear and I am completely grateful that the beautiful, clear pond that was there when we moved in 36 years ago, is once more. Thanks to Mike and everyone at SOLitude who made this possible!

Debra Krogh

Private Landowner, Pinellas Park, FL

Pleasure to Work With

For the past 2 years as a member of our neighborhood board, I worked personally with Mitchell of SOLitude Lake Management. Our neighborhood has over 40 lakes & ponds. I can honestly say it was a pleasure to work with this vendor. Mitchell provided weekly updates and as our aquatics expert, he helped educate us and assisted in developing a restorative approach to our lake & pond management. It was a pleasure to work with such a knowledgeable representative. Thanks!

Colette Price

Board Member, Bradenton, FL

Highly Recommend SOLitude

SOLitude services all the water, weed, and algae requirements for our Condominium Lake which 7 buildings back up to. Our Aquatic Specialist Ean does a fabulous job taking care of all our needs and has many owners complimenting on how great our water looks. Ean is just a phone call away and shows up immediately. He is always friendly and very knowledgeable and takes care of the issues. I would highly recommend this company to anyone for your lake water needs.

Doug Berlet

Board President, Naples, FL

From Swamp to Beautiful Water

For about 30 years I watched the encroachment of weeds across my pond, limiting not only our recreational use but our aesthetic appreciation as well. SOLitude Lake Management came in with their hydro-raking harvester and clear it all out! It was the first time I could swim across the entire pond! No swamp, just beautiful water that passers-by slow down to look at.

Dean Jacques

Private Landowner, Chester, CT

Go-To for All My Lake Needs

The SOLitude team is my go-to for all my lake needs. Very professional and responsive. I know I will always be taken care of even when it is something extremely difficult. Their years of experience make them the best lake company in the valley. Highly recommended. Thanks team!

Jennifer Thomasson

Community Manager, Peoria, AZ

Glenn Is Always Helpful

Had a difficult project to limit an exotic algae. Glenn was just super to get answers, develop our approach, and was always helpful.

Wolf Busch

New York

Knowledgeable Staff – Highly Recommend!

SOLitude Lake Management is your full-service provider of lake and pond management solutions. Highly recommend! Very knowledgeable staff!

Marguerite Cormier

Massachusetts

Whole Team Provides Consistent Service

SOLitude Lake Management is an awesome company. Their team is very responsive and provides clear invoices in a timely manner. Flo was very helpful in providing the necessary documents that I requested to keep on file. She has a friendly attitude and the whole team provides consistent service to the job site. I highly recommend considering them for your lake management needs.

Jessica Andujo

California

They Are Simply the Best!

I hired SOLitude to help me out with a new pond in West Virginia. Heather was super helpful and knowledgeable in walking me through the process. She introduced me to Robert and they are simply the BEST. I have a lot of questions and they are super patient, helpful, and responsive. Most of all they both are knowledgeable (and pedigreed) in the world of aquatic life and health. It was a great decision to contract with SOLitude.

Jeremy Billy

Private Landowner, Great Cacapon, WV

Excellent Service to Our Pond

They provide excellent service to our pond. Their reports are always comprehensive and detailed. And their customer service team is always quick to respond and friendly. A big shout out to Flo who was able to assist me when I was having issues accessing documents.

Zachary Dequilla

Chantilly, VA

Responsive & Timely

SOLitude has done an excellent job maintaining our lake here in Alexandria, VA. They are responsive and timely in their follow-up to service requests and the repairs are quick and their team members are very professional. We would recommend them to maintain your lake or pond.

Joe D.

Lake Committee Chairperson, Alexandria, VA

Turned Pond Into a Thing of Beauty

SOLitude has been servicing our large residential pond for some years now. They do a wonderful job in all respects! They took a water plant and algae-clogged mess and turned it into a thing of beauty! Work quality is superb, customer service is first-rate. We are extremely well pleased.

Hank Chase

Private Landowner, Purcellville, VA

Thanks for the Professionalism & Commitment

I’m a property manager in Upperville, VA. I maintain a 100-acre farm with an 8-acre pond on the property. We hired SOLitude in the late winter to guide, educate, and help manage the pond. We recently held an event and the pond was the centerpiece. A huge thanks to Jackson – his professionalism and commitment to producing a quality product surpassed my expectations. I will recommend Jackson and his services to any and all after my experience.

Michael Smiley

Private Landowner, Upperville, VA

Enjoy Working with Their Team

I have hired SOLitude for several different services at my work site and they have all been very successful. I really enjoy working with their team and look forward to using them in the future.

Ethan Jankowski

Richmond, VA

Pond & Fountain Looks Great

Thank you for always keeping my neighborhood’s ponds and fountains looking great. And, many times, weathering the weather to make it happen!

Mandy Berkowitz

Community Member, Virginia Beach, VA

Made My Pond Nice to Look At

This company is amazing! I called and explained the issues I was having with my pond, and Josh came out and assessed my pond. After doing so, he was able to put together a regiment that helped bring my pond back to where it was nice to look at! I would recommend this company to all of my friends and family!

William Youngblood

Private Landowner, TX

Paul Goes Above & Beyond

Paul is great to work with. He goes above and beyond each time he comes out. He has taken my lake to levels I would have never dreamed of.

Lloyd Irvin

Private Landowner, Buffalo, TX

Extraordinarily Happy with SOLitude

Our neighborhood has been working with SOLitude and we have been extraordinarily happy. Prior to our relationship with them, we had contracted with another company that was less than professional in many ways. This has not been the case with SOLitude! They are professional, communicative, prompt, and do an excellent job at what we have asked them to do. We appreciate this company and its employees very much.

Emily Soura

Resident, Columbia, SC

Great to Work With From Start to Finish

I have had a wonderful professional working relationship with SOLitude for several years. It has been such an awesome experience from all departments within SOLitude that I would highly recommend them to anyone who has pond maintenance service needs. Great company to work with from the beginning to the completion of a job!

Community Member

North Carolina

Always Do Quality Work

SOLitude Lake Management is the best in Charlotte and surrounding areas. They always do quality work, communicate effectively and follow through. Can’t ask for more from them and appreciate all of the work that we have had the pleasure of partnering on!

Jordan Elliott

Community Manager, Charlotte, NC

Use SOLitude At Many of My Properties

Excellent company! I am a Community Manager and use them at many of my properties. Flo was very helpful and quick to help me resolve a communication request. Such a pleasure to find responsive people and professionals! Thank you!

Elise Uzmack

Community Manager, Calabash, NC

SOLitude Took Care of My Pond’s Problems

I had major problems with a pond before hiring SOLitude, they took care of the problem almost immediately…..highly recommend them.

Don Hamby

Raleigh, NC

Restored Our Basin

SOLitude has been professional, timely, and cost-effective while providing services to our Borough. They’ve assisted with pond management, treatment of invasive vegetation, and restoration of an overgrown detention basin/pond. I would highly recommend their services.

Kevin O'Sullivan

Borough Engineer, North Caldwell, NJ

Our Lake Is the Cleanest Around

In our dealings with SOLitude over the years, their professionalism, knowledge, and communication with my community are outstanding. Our lake is always one of the cleanest around. Thank you!

Phil Eberle

Glenwood, NJ

Couldn’t Be More Satisfied

Our community began using SOLitude Lake Management after years of unfortunate experiences with another company. We could not be more satisfied, not only with the condition of our pond but also with the level of communication and response time from all the staff. We highly recommend this company.

Dee Slade

Property Manager, Chester, NJ

A Great Experience

SOLitude makes the work seamless. They send monthly notices so you know they have been on site and recommend products or services you may not have considered, but will help reduce maintenance in the long run. Our local SOLitude representative is always quick to respond, very helpful, and stands by their products and services. Overall, working with them is a great experience and recommended highly.

Diane Rehkop

Community Manager, MO

Our Ponds Look Fabulous

SOLitude has the most responsive team. We use them to manage the runoff ponds that we have in our community. They send updates and let us know what we need to do to keep our ponds looking fabulous.

Chantia Williams-Hicks

Community Manager, Waldorf, MD

Created A Space the Community Can Enjoy

Our community has a one-acre pond that SOLitude has managed for our 200 homes development. They have done a fine job in maintaining the health of the pond so that people can fish and enjoy the surrounding area, wildlife, and gardens. It is a true oasis in a declining area of green spaces for all to enjoy.

Andrea Kowaleski

Property Manager, Marriottsville, MD

#1 Choice for Lake Management

Great client relations and very professional & knowledgable service teams. #1 choice for lake/pond clean-up, treatment, and removal of invasive species (among other services).

Rachel Peoples

Private Landowner, IL

SOLitude Keeps Our Lake Beautiful

We really appreciate SOLitude keeping our lake beautiful! Also, thanks to Flo for always providing great customer service when we have questions. Thanks!

Rachel Russell

Property Manager, College Park, GA

Cleared My Overgrown Pond

Great service. Our family pond was in really bad shape with overgrowth, lily pads, and other plants. Within the first few months, there was a big difference, and they were able to clear the pond without endangering the wildlife. I will definitely recommend this company.

Charelle Smith

Private Landowner, Covington, GA

James Keeps Our Lake Clean & Blue

Fantastic customer service. James does a top-notch job keeping our small lake clean and blue, and he also keeps us updated constantly as to when he’s coming and what he’s done. He is an outstanding employee.

Lori Anderson

Private Landowner, Blairsville, GA

Great & Fast Service!

Ean is always very helpful and resolved any problems I have right away. I highly recommend the company. Great and fast service!

Roman Mueller

Fort Myers, FL

Jason & Peter Are Quick to Help

I really enjoy working with SOLitude. They have a great team. Very responsive and excellent communication. I work with Jason and Peter on a daily basis and they are always quick to help.

Taylor Nielsen

District Manager, Tampa, FL

Services Provide Great Results

Nick and the team at SOLitude provide excellent service and response for the communities we manage. They offer solutions and professional services that provide great results! Highly recommend them for all your aquatic needs!

Afroditi Rodriguez

Community Manager, Tampa, FL

Fantastic Team

Fantastic team – very attentive to my spike rush issue, and would not quit till it was under control. I would highly recommend them.

Michael Rollins

Private Landowner, Tarpon Springs, FL

Helpful & Knowledgeable Team

The entire SOLitude team is professional and friendly. I am impressed with the wealth of knowledge and especially how helpful they are.

Suzie Baylis

Valrico, FL

Go-To for Wetland Preservation

Liz was extremely helpful in providing diligent and competitive pricing and pushed aggressively to meet our deadlines. The quality exceeded expectations and the service was first class! I strongly recommend SOLitude Lake Management to anyone seeking wetland/preservation/lake or even pond maintenance and/or mitigation of EPD. SOLitude performed our initial wetland preservation mitigation to clean and treat for invasive species of plants and maintain/treat on-site ponds & wetlands. Great job Liz & SOLitude!

Rocky Sellers

Sarasota, FL

Pleasure to Do Business With

SOLitude Lake Management is a pleasure to do business with. Very professional and friendly from the first contact by phone to the actual order, installation and follow-up.

Katherine Cooper

Private Landowner, Sarasota, FL

Professional & Prompt with Service

We have been using SOLitude Lake Management for some time now and they are always professional and prompt with service. Raquel has personally assisted us in the office, she is awesome!

Property Manager

Pompano, FL

Well-Run Company

SOLitude Lake Management is a well-run company, which is hard to find these days. SOLitude Lake Management is very professional and answers any questions I have in a timely manner.

Jody Esposito

Tamarac, FL

Easy to Communicate with the Team

I have a few communities that use SOLitude for their lake maintenance needs and I find it easy to communicate with them and get resolutions on any issues.

Sierra Bubb

Property Manager, Deerfield Beach, FL

Our Marina Looks Great!

Flo did a great job of helping us get our invoice correct for our homeowner board. Thanks for all the hard work! The water looks great and all our residents are pleased with the new look of our Marina.

Debbie Dillard

Debary, FL

Staff Is Super Helpful and Friendly

SOLitude Lake Management was contracted by our HOA to service a lake in the center of the community. They have done a good job with the service calls, the contract was set at a reasonable price, and the office personnel is super helpful and friendly.

Jason Koivu

Board Member, Melbourne, FL

Definitely Recommend SOLitude

SOLitude’s technician is knowledgeable and gives me extremely perfect service. He was so kind and patiently listens to my request. Also, he gave me advice about the process. I will definitely recommend this company.

Umut Guven

Jacksonville, FL

On Time & Do A Great Job

SOLitude is a great company! I have never had any problems with my lake care. They are always on time and do a great job. It’s hard nowadays to find anyone who wants to work and take pride in their work. Thank you!

Private Landowner

Fort Pierce, FL

Peace of Mind

Working with SOLitude has been a great experience! Their professionalism, knowledge, and response/timing are the qualities that will give you peace of mind.

Rosa Nieves

Community Association Manager, Naples, FL

Natural Resource Experts

We have used SOLitude for several years, and are very happy with the relationship. They are responsive to our needs, cost-effective, and professional in their service. We use SOLitude for all our natural resource needs (lakes, littoral, and preserve). SOLitude approaches our property in a proactive manner and cost-conscious manner. Their technical people also have the ability to effectively communicate with us non-technical types.

Joseph Meli

Board President, Naples, FL

Great Partnership

SOLitude manages our 28 lakes at our Country Club and we have formed a great partnership with them and in particular Christina and Garrett. They are responsive to our needs and take the time to explain their process and ongoing management plans to staff, board members, and owners as well as answer their questions.

Joe Burden

Country Club General Manager, Fort Myers, FL

SOLitude Cares About Their Clients

SOLitude has the manpower to handle all jobs large or small and the expertise to answer any questions. They care about their clients, which is easy to see when observing the quality of work provided by them during every visit. SOLitude is the team of highly trained professionals you want to maintain the waterbodies of your property.

Matthew Clem

Golf Superintendent, Fort Myers, FL

Our Lake Looks Great!

SOLitude’s technician, Ian, is always pleasant and informative. He always calls me to update me on what was performed and if something else is needed. I have had many positive comments from other owners in my community regarding how great our lake looks. Thanks for the service.

Doug B.

Florida

Staff Is Professional & Courteous

Best lake company in Florida. SOLitude is always available when needed and the person that shows up is very professional and courteous while on our property.

Thomas Mcentee

Bonita Springs, FL

Super People to Work With

Our lake was a mess two years ago. SOLitude Lake Management came in once a month and took care of all the problems we had. Anytime we have issues, which there were very few, they send someone to address it within the week. Great company and super people to work with.

Private Landowner

Miami-Dade County, FL

Professional & Informative

As president of a local property management firm, I rely heavily on the expertise of SOLitude. They are professional and very informative to clients.

Stuart Galkin

Property Management Firm President, Lewes, DE

SOLitude Provided Wise Counsel

SOLitude provided wise counsel on how to keep our lake healthy and provided frequent onsite follow-up visits to check the success of new products. I am particularly impressed with the herbicide team!

Linda Teixeira

Avon, CT

Our Pond Is In Very Good Health

SOLitude manages a pond for us that is a shared responsibility between three entities. The health of our pond has been very good since they took over the maintenance. I would recommend SOLitude for pond maintenance needs.

John Gonzales

Director of Facilities, Englewood, CO

Easy to Work With & Professional

SOLitude Lake Management has been a tremendous help with our two small ponds. Easy to work with and very professional. Customer service was excellent. Thank you, Kaitlyn and Matti.

Dan Ryhal

Private Landowner, Pine, CO

The Water Is Crystal Clear

The water quality and clarity has been great! Our waterfall and fountain feature is located at the entrance of the community. We are mandated to use reclaimed water. The water is crystal clear.

Mike Treanor

Marana, AZ

Improved Our Lake’s Appearance & Health

SOLitude Lake Management was able to provide some experienced/expert advice regarding our unique lake environment. The follow-through on their recommendations has significantly improved our lake’s appearance and health. Their knowledge was an asset and their “in the field” personnel have been great to work with at our Golf Club.

Curt Hudek

Golf Club Owner, Mesa, AZ

SOLitude Solved All the Problems

SOLitude Lake Management did a great job. Dylan is the gentleman that works on two of our property ponds, and from day one, he’s solved all the problems. Very professional and explains every step of what he is doing.

Fabio Giro

Private Landowner, AZ

Staff Give 110% Day After Day

Reliably at the job site ahead of our scheduled time. Good communication ahead of fieldwork to get details nailed down. Staff gives 110% day after day even in challenging environments. Courteous and respectful; great ambassadors for our project. Great value for top-notch work.

D. Kerr

Arizona

Leslie Is One of the Best!

Leslie listened to my needs and concerns, she didn’t offer a fix until she surveyed the lake. It was refreshing to work with someone who cared enough to listen and plan out the best needs of service. If you’re looking for lake maintenance, she is one of the best! I highly recommend!

Trisha Miller

Property Manager, Glendale, AZ

Very Professional & Responsive

The SOLitude team is my go-to for all my lake needs. Very professional and responsive. I know I will always be taken care of even when it is something extremely difficult. Their years of experience make them the best lake company in the valley. Highly recommended. Thanks, team!

Jennifer Thomasson

Community Manager, Peoria, AZ

Extremely Helpful & Friendly Staff

Extremely helpful and friendly staff that is always a pleasure to deal with. I have used this company for over 4 years now and they have provided great service and were able to deal with and correct problems that five other lake management companies were not able to even begin to address. I highly recommend this company for any of your lake service needs.

Private Landowner

Responsive to Our Needs

SOLitude manages our 28 lakes at our Country Club and we have formed a great partnership with them and in particular Christina and Garrett. They are responsive to our needs and take the time to explain their process and ongoing management plans to staff, board members, and owners as well as answer their questions.

Joe Burden

General Manager, Florida

Professional & Knowledgeable

Working with SOLitude has been a great experience! Their professionalism, knowledge, response, and timing are the qualities that will give you peace of mind.

Rosa Nieves

Community Association Manager, Florida

A Pleasure to Work with SOLitude

For the past 2 years as a member of our neighborhood board, I worked personally with Mitchell of SOLitude Lake Management. Our neighborhood has over 40 lakes & ponds. I can honestly say it was a pleasure to work with this vendor. Mitchell provided weekly updates and as our aquatics expert, he helped educate us and assisted in developing a restorative approach to our lake & pond management. It was a pleasure to work with such a knowledgeable representative. Thanks!

Colette Price

Board Member, Florida

Reliable and Quick to Respond

SOLitude Lake Management has been managing our lake/stormwater pond, and fountains since 2005. Their team has always been reliable and quick to respond to any issues. They are all very knowledgeable, able to explain what is happening with any situation and find solutions to problems as they arise. Overall, I have been very pleased with their work and would highly recommend them to anyone with lake, pond, and other BMP management needs.

Joan M. Fowler

City of Chesapeake, VA

The SOLitude Team Is Absolutely Fabulous!

SOLitude consistently provides top-notch customer service and performance, whether it is over the phone or in person on-site. My questions are always answered promptly by your professional and knowledgeable staff. The SOLitude Team is absolutely fabulous!

Dawn Guappone, CMCA

Bridgeville, DE

SOLitude Helped Relieve the Pressure of Maintaining My Pond

Working with the team from SOLitude Lake Management took away the pressure of dealing with an issue that I had never specialized in. The knowledge of everyone involved helped keep the process moving, from engineering to local code compliance. They knew the course that needed to be taken and it was implemented in a timely manner, causing the project to come to completion well within our expectations.

Paul Watts

Wilmington, DE

Hat’s Off to SOLitude!

SOLitude Lake Management has consistently performed to a high standard within the three communities they currently service for my clients. Whether it is routine maintenance or a major issue, I can always be assured that when I call or email we will have almost immediate communication and actionable timelines. In a busy industry such as this one, having someone that stays in touch is critical and appreciated. Hat’s off to SOLitude for a job well done!

Lisa Wagner

Community Manager, Richmond, VA

We Are In Good Hands with SOLitude

We were presented with the challenge of dealing with our stormwater basin, which is regulated by EPA standards that we were not familiar with. SOLitude came in and guided us through the entire process. Our basin went from an eyesore to a spectacular main selling point for our community. We are in good hands with SOLitude and cannot thank them enough!

Dawn Crawford

HOA President, PA

Who We Are

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SOLitude Lake Management is a nationwide environmental firm committed to providing sustainable solutions that improve water quality, enhance beauty, preserve natural resources and reduce our environmental footprint. SOLitude’s team of aquatic resource management professionals specializes in the development and execution of customized lake, pond, wetland, and fisheries management programs that include water quality testing and restoration, nutrient remediation, algae, and aquatic weed control, installation and maintenance of fountains and aeration systems, bathymetry, shoreline erosion restoration, mechanical harvesting and hydro-raking, lake vegetation studies, biological assessments, habitat evaluations, and invasive species management. Services and educational resources are available to clients nationwide, including homeowners associations, multi-family and apartment communities, golf courses, commercial developments, ranches, private landowners, reservoirs, recreational and public lakes, municipalities, drinking water authorities, parks, and state and federal agencies. SOLitude Lake Management is a proud member of the Rentokil Steritech family of companies in North America.