Pond scum is a common nuisance for lake and pond owners. This unsightly layer of weeds or algae can be bright green, often giving the water an unpleasant look. As it multiplies, pond scum can cover the entire surface of the water, leading to a variety of ecological problems. For lake and pond owners, this not only diminishes the aesthetic appeal of their water features but can also disrupt the balance of the aquatic ecosystem. Excessive weed or algae growth may result in unpleasant odors and can deplete oxygen levels in the water, harming fish and other aquatic life. Learn how to remove pond scum and maintain a healthy, vibrant waterbody.
What is pond scum?
Pond scum is a term used to describe various forms of organic material that accumulate on the surface of stagnant water. This can consist of floating filamentous algae, watermeal, duckweed, and other aquatic plants. Floating filamentous algae present as green, silky strands that can clump together, while watermeal and duckweed are tiny, free-floating plants that reproduce rapidly, creating dense mats on the water’s surface. Identifying the specific type of pond scum is crucial for effective treatment, as each type responds to different management approaches.
The causes of pond scum
Pond scum can take over our waterbodies for a variety of reasons. Excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus can fuel the rapid growth of algae and aquatic weeds in the water. These nutrients often come from stormwater runoff containing fertilizers, animal waste, and other debris. Sunlight plays a crucial role as well; since algae and weeds require sunlight to grow, increased exposure, combined with excess nutrients, enables them to flourish. Continuous sunlight and warm temperatures can heat the water, creating the ideal environment that increases algae and aquatic weed growth. In addition, stagnant water can also contribute to pond scum, as the lack of circulation and oxygen prevents natural ecological processes that would otherwise keep algae and weeds in check.
The ways to get rid of pond scum
There are many ways to help remove pond scum from your lake or pond. Physical removal via mechanical solutions is possible for thick mats of filamentous algae. This method can immediately reduce the surface coverage of pond scum. However, it’s important to note that physical removal will only provide brief control. Mechanical solutions are not recommended to remove pond scum like duckweed or watermeal, as the plant can further spread through fragmentation. Introducing beneficial biological organisms, such as Grass Carp, can help naturally control aquatic weed growth. This fish species does not consume filamentous algae, so it’s important to know what type of pond scum you’re dealing with before implementing any physical control solutions. Before stocking, check your local and state regulations to ensure that stocking sterile grass carp is legal
Algaecides or herbicides applied by licensed professionals can quickly treat existing algae and pond weeds, helping reduce the pond scum present. Though effective, safe and reliable tools, algaecides and herbicides don’t fix the root cause of pond scum, and recurring treatments may be required to maintain control.
The best way to get rid of pond scum is to prevent it from developing through proactive management solutions. Proactive solutions such as nutrient remediation can help address the root causes of pond scum by reducing excess nutrients from the water. In addition, aeration can increase oxygen levels in the water, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that break down organic matter and limit excess nutrients. Additionally, implementing vegetative buffers can help reduce nutrient runoff by filtering stormwater runoff before it enters the pond. All of these solutions focus on maintaining balanced water quality. When water quality is balanced, pond scum is less likely to develop.
Keeping pond scum away
Removing pond scum requires a combination of effective management strategies and ongoing, proactive care to ensure the long-term health of your aquatic ecosystem. SOLitude Lake Management offers comprehensive solutions aimed at addressing the root causes of pond scum to help keep your waterbody healthy. Our aquatic specialists will develop a customized treatment plan that meets the unique needs of your lake or pond. With regular monitoring, we’ll be able to help catch problems early and implement treatments quickly. Keep pond scum away from your waterbody and enjoy all the benefits your pond has to offer with SOLitude.
How to Get Rid of Pond Scum
SOLitude Lake Management is a nationwide environmental firm committed to providing sustainable solutions that improve water quality, enhance beauty and preserve natural resources.
SOLitude’s team of aquatic scientists specializes in the development and execution of customized lake, stormwater pond, wetland and fisheries management programs. Services include water quality testing and restoration, algae and aquatic weed control, installation and maintenance of fountains and aeration systems, shoreline erosion control, muck and sediment removal and invasive species management. SOLitude partners with homeowners associations, golf courses, private landowners, businesses and municipalities. SOLitude Lake Management is part of Rentokil, a leading business services company, operating across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
For more information, visit SOLitude Lake Management at solitudelakemanagement.com, and connect on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
