Many people feel strongly against the use of herbicides in the environment. However, if an herbicide is targeted to a specific plant or algae, minimal effects will be seen in the ecosystem. Aquatic herbicides are specially formulated for use in water to control aquatic plants. When the label directions are properly followed, the product is compatible with the aquatic environment. There are several different kinds of aquatic herbicides:
Systemic Herbicides-Will be taken into the plants roots which will prevent the re-growth of the plant. Used for cattails and water lilies.
Contact Herbicides-Will reduce the plant/algae where it comes in contact with it. Used for milfoil, submersed weeds, and algae.
Non-Selective Herbicides-Will eliminate all aquatic plants. This is undesirable because fish and other organisms will no longer have their habitat. Also, too much decay will cause sludge to accumulate in the pond.
Selective Herbicides-Will eliminate targeted plants so that the whole environment will not be effected.
The use of terrestrial herbicides in water is not recommended because it is not formulated for aquatic use. These herbicides may not disperse in the water and can cause adverse, long term effects on the environment.
Thanks so much for sharing this. I have been using an aquatic herbicide for my fish pond and I can say that my fish were never harmed. It is actually safe if you want to get rid of some of the underwater plants.
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