The Pond Program

Like most activities, enjoying the success of delivering pond management services involves several key factors: a program with a timing schedule, the ability to deal with factors outside of our control, such as the weather, and a little good luck. Since we cannot control the weather or rely solely on luck to be successful, it is important to focus on the biggest part of the pond weed and algae equation that we can control: the program.

A step-by-step pond program, with an anticipated site visit schedule and the required control materials, is needed to begin to address the pond needs of the customer during the growing season. Fourteen-day application intervals should fit most situations. More so than the calendar, Mother Nature will determine the best start date for a pond management program. After the last ice from winter melts, begin monitoring a few ponds in your service area to observe water temperature and scout for any new algae growth. Carefully, note and record site conditions on each visit for future reference.

In Ohio, we can typically see the first signs of growing algae in late March or early April, when water temperatures hover around or exceed 50 degrees. In most ponds, that temperature threshold seems to be a good marker for the very early beginning of the growing season. It also indicates the time to get started on the program. Begin applications of pond colorant right away or even a week or two before you expect those water temperatures.

Stick to your application schedule from the beginning of the season. You can be proud of the consistent results you produce when you keep a handle on the foremost key factor in pond management: the program.

Ted Vonderwell
ATS Sales Representative