AQUA DOC Lake and Pond Management

Come and Visit our Display!

2012-02-29T15:29:00.000-05:00

Come and visit our displays and the 2012 Central Home and Garden Show and the Cincinnati Home and Garden show! Our company representatives will be able to answer any questions and make recommendations for your lake or pond.

Central Home and Garden Show

http://www.dispatchevents.com/content/sections/central-ohio-h-and-g/index.html

The Ohio Expo Center
Booth # 2120

Cincinnati Home and Garden Show

http://www.hartproductions.com/home-and-garden-show/

Duke Energy Center
Booth # 330

WE ARE LOOKING FOR SOME GREAT PEOPLE!

2012-02-08T09:59:00.000-05:00

Do You:

· Enjoy Working Outdoors?

· Enjoy Working With and Meeting People?

· Have an Interest in Science?

If Yes, You May Have

A Future In

AQUATICS

Building, Maintaining, Working on Lakes,

Ponds, and Waterscapes

We are growing and are looking for people to join our team!

Please apply in person at:

10779 Mayfield Rd.

Chardon, OH 44024

3455 Centerpointe Dr. Unit G

Grove City, OH 43123

(800)689-5253

Parrotfeather:

2011-12-12T15:40:00.001-05:00

Parrotfeather is an aquatic weed that has feather-like leaves in whorls of 4-6. The leaves are 1-3cm with 20-30 divisions per leaf. It has both submersed and emergent leaves and stems and is easily mistaken for Eurasian Watermilfoil. The plant is bright green and may grow up to 12” above the surface.

Parrotfeather is native to the Amazon River in South America but has been transported to North America through the shipping industry and the aquarium plant trade. It now inhabits freshwater lakes, ponds, and streams where it will easily spread by fragmentation and take over the body of water. It is difficult to control due to its thick, waxy cuticle and woody stems.

Three-Square:

2011-11-21T16:50:00.000-05:00

Three-Square is a member of the Bulrush family. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 4ft tall. This plant will form large colonies of rhizomes underground, which enables it to reproduce quickly. The flowers look like small brown spikes at the end of the stem and there are only a few leaves around the base of the plant. Three-Square may grow in water up to 12” deep where it provides a habitat for many micro and macro invertebrates. Though this plant may be important in the aquatic ecosystem, it may take over the shoreline very quickly and eliminate other natural plants.

Argulus-Fish Lice:

2011-11-17T16:38:00.000-05:00

Argulus, or fish lice, can cause morbidity and mortality in many different fish species. Fish lice are crustacean parasites that are related to prawns, shrimp, and water fleas. They have a direct life cycle which means that they use only the fish as a host. Argulus are visible with the naked eye and are approximately 5mm to 10mm in length. When they are attached to a fish they may simple look like black spots, until you notice them moving. The lice attach themselves using curved hooks and suckers and are usually located behind the fins and head. The best way to get rid of the lice is to treat the water using an organophosphate. This should be applied to the water three times, ten days apart.

Biological Control:

2011-11-16T16:32:00.000-05:00

The biological control of invasive species is an up and coming method for the control of invasive species, however, it does come with risks. This method can be used to control insects, weeds, and plant diseases by introducing the “natural enemy” of the species. This will be done by predation, parasitism, and herbivory. The goal it so eliminate competition between native species that are needed to keep the ecosystem in balance and the invasive species that may take over the environment. A concern is that the control species that is introduced to eliminate the invasive species may become invasive itself.

An example is the use of leaf-eating beetles to control the invasive species, purple loosestrife. These beetles are said to exclusively eat the purple loosestrife plant. A concern is that the beetles may begin to consume other, native plants in the area and the beetle will then be invasive itself.

Yellow Flag Iris:

2011-11-14T14:16:00.002-05:00

The yellow flag iris inhabits temperate climates. It can live in water up to 2.5’ and it reproduces by underground rhizomes or seeds. This iris is used for decoration in watergardens, as an erosion control method, and in sewage treatment facilities because of its ability to remove metals from the water. The yellow flag iris has flat, erect leaves that are arched at the top. The flowers are 3-4’ tall on erect stems.

The planting of the yellow flag iris is prohibited in some states due to its invasive properties. This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and salinity levels and it easily establishes itself in waterways. It can form dense thickets similar to cattails and phragmites and can be difficult to control.

Chara:

2011-11-11T14:33:00.002-05:00

Chara is a form of algae that grows attached to the bottom of a pond. It can cover large areas and be several inches thick. The stems are hollow and are a yellow-green color. Leaf-like projections occur in whirls around the stem. When the stems are crushed they may feel gritty due to mineral deposits and will release a distinctive musky odor. It is important that this algae not be confused with higher plants (aquatic weeds). Chara has been successfully treated using copper based products and alkylamine salts of endothall.

Winter Ecology:

2011-11-07T16:50:00.000-05:00

The winter ecology of a pond varies by region, but for us in Ohio, winters can be harsh and animals must be able to properly adapt to the environment. For aquatic plants and animals, the ice acts as a lid on the aquatic ecosystem which limits the amount of nutrients, energy, and oxygen that may enter this world of extremely stable temperatures.

Ectothermic animals (body temperature stays in equilibrium with surroundings) slow their metabolism, become sluggish, conserve oxygen and energy in semihibernation or undergo biochemical changes to tolerate the cold.

Semiaquatic animals must compensate for the heat loss by constant grooming with oily secretions (muskrats), heat shunting mechanisms by reducing the amount of blood flow to tails and feet (beavers), or by huddling in nests.

Poikilotherms are organisms that allow their internal body temperature to vary with the external temperature in their environment. This includes certain types of fish, reptiles, and amphibians. This practice allows the animal to reduce or increase their metabolism accordingly.

PondAir Aeration Systems:

2011-11-01T16:30:00.000-04:00

Help keep your waterfeature aerated this winter using the PondAir Aeration System. The PondAir system has a high efficiency duel output compressor with flow dial, heavy duty seals and elevated rear air intake, 2 or 4 blue airstones, rolls of 30’ high-grade airline, check valves, and an outdoor power cord. The PondAir 2 can be used in ponds up to 1,000 gallons while the PondAir 4 is appropriate for 2,000 gallon ponds. The compressor for this aeration system must be protected from the elements. The Faux Rock Cover can serve as a good way to hide and protect the aeration kit. This rock cover has a built in vent and will protect the compressor from harsh weather conditions.

PondAir 2 Aerator: $59.99

PondAir 4 Aerator: $79.99

Faux Rock Cover: $89.99

Understanding Pond Stratification & Aeration

2011-10-28T16:42:00.002-04:00

Thermal stratification in a pond means that there is a noticeable temperature difference as the water gets deeper. Normal thermal stratification begins to occur in May and can continue through September. The cold water at the bottom the pond supports anaerobic bacteria. This bacteria is not helpful in decomposition. When leaves and other organic matter are deposited on the pond’s floor, they will not decompose quickly and black pond muck will form. Installing an aeration system in the pond will lead to more aerobic bacteria throughout the pond. This is the bacteria that will aid in decomposition. If the black pond muck is allowed to accumulate, the pond may need to be dredged which can be costly.

Muddy Pond Water

2011-10-19T16:21:00.003-04:00

Many ponds are built to provide recreational activities and aesthetic benefits. Chronically muddy water makes a pond unattractive and most swimmers will avoid swimming in such water. Fishing is impacted because a chronically muddy pond reduces the amount of sunlight penetrating into the water which in turn reduces the amount of aquatic food produced by the pond’s food chain. This will reduce the amount of fish biomass that can be supported. High turbidity levels negatively impact the ability of bluegill and bass to feed and maintain themselves in a healthy condition.

The two primary biological causes of muddy water are fish and waterfowl. Large populations of the common carp, goldfish, and bullheads can cause muddy water due to their spawning and feeding activities in shallow water. Large numbers of ducks and geese cause similar problems. Also, waterfowl often eat bank vegetation which can increase erosion.

Watershed activities can also lead to muddy water. Ponds that receive runoff water from nearby soils that are frequently disturbed with agricultural equipment are prone to be muddy. Construction within the pond’s watershed can also result in considerable input of suspended clay into a pond.

Muddy waters can be controlled by removing invasive fish species and keeping waterfowl away. Products such as flocculants can also be added to the water that will cause the suspended particles to bind and sink to the bottom.

Lynch, William E. Muddy Water in Ponds: Causes, Prevention, and Remedies. The Ohio State University Extension.

Feed your Goldfish and Koi the appropriate food for the season:

2011-10-12T16:08:00.002-04:00

Now is a good time of the year to switch your fish food to a Spring and Autumn staple food. When the water is cooler fish will digest their food much slower. Because of this, your fish need to eat food that will fully digest and not be left in their stomach too long. Pondcare Spring & Autumn Premium Pellets contain the proper portions of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for coldwater feeding.

Cattails:

2011-10-11T15:43:00.002-04:00

Early fall is the best time of year to treat cattails that may have invaded your pond. Cattails can grow anywhere from 3 to 10 feet tall. In the Unites States, cattails are either the broad-leaf or narrow-leaf varieties. They reproduce by wind-dispersed seeds or through their root systems. Most cattails only require 1-2ft of water to grow to their full potential. Once the plants have established, it will be very difficult to maintain open water.

Cattails can be controlled using Glyphosate, a systemic herbicide. This product is best applied in the early to mid fall when the cattails are starting to take all of the nutrients out of their leaves to go dormant for the winter. When the Glyphosate herbicide is applied at this time, it will be taken down into the plant’s root system along with these nutrients. This will ensure that there is very little re-growth during the next season.

Watershed Maintenance:

2011-10-07T16:32:00.002-04:00

The watershed is the area of a land where the water will drain into a nearby body of water. If the area of land outside of your pond contains nutrients from fertilizers, manure, or goose droppings, these nutrients will be washed into the pond. The excess nutrients in the pond may cause algal blooms. If the source of the nutrients cannot be eliminated, the next best management plan is to plant nutrient absorbing plants in the watershed area and around the pond. Rushes, irises, and tall grasses have large root systems that can absorb the nutrients before they drain into the pond.

OLCA Conference:

2011-09-28T16:23:00.000-04:00

AQUA DOC is a proud member of the Ohio Lake Communities Association (OLCA). This week at Candlewood Lake in Mt. Gilead, OH, we are attending the annual Fall Meeting and Conference. We will be involved in discussions regarding how to keep lake communities safe and operational. AQUA DOC is always working to keep current with what’s new in lake and pond management.

Water Hyacinth:

2011-05-26T15:18:00.002-04:00

Water hyacinth is a free-floating aquatic plant that is native to tropical South America. It has broad, thick leaves. A single stalk rises above the surface and holds 8-15 purple flowers. It is most common in the southern US but is sold as ornamental plants all around the country. Water hyacinth reproduces very quickly by runners and seeds and it can easily cover the whole surface of the water. This will deprive the water of oxygen and disrupt water flow. It can be controlled using a 2,4 D, Diquat, or Glyphosate herbicide. Water hyacinth is known for its ability to take heavy metals out of the water. Currently, in some eastern countries, it is being used as a water purifier to remove arsenic from drinking water.

Creeping Water Primrose:

2011-05-23T16:37:00.000-04:00

Creeping water primrose is a perennial plant that can grow in wet soil as well as float out onto the water. Its leaves are a reddish-green and are 2” long and ½” to 1” in diameter. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are 1” to 2 “ in diameter. This is an invasive species that forms extensive mats and will deter water flow and limit shoreline activities. It is used as an ornamental aquatic plant and improper use and disposal has lead to its spread in waterways. Creeping water primrose is spread by seeds and plant fragments that are carried by boats, water, wind, and wildlife. It can be controlled using a 2,4 D, Diquat, or Glyphosate herbicide.

Applying Aquatic Herbicides: Yourself or Pay Someone?

2011-05-18T16:41:00.000-04:00

Applying Aquatic Herbicides: Yourself or Pay Someone?

In Ohio, a pond owner has the option to apply algaecides and herbicides to their pond themselves or to hire a licensed applicator. In most other states, a licensed applicator must be hired for aquatic vegetation treatments. A professional licensed applicator should be contacted if:

· The pond owner does not feel comfortable handling chemicals.

o A licensed applicator knows how to safely handle chemicals and must renew their license every 3 years in Ohio.

· The pond owner needs to be able to properly identify aquatic plants and algae because herbicides and algaecides are very species specific and selective.

o A licensed applicator is trained in species identification and can ensure that the correct product is used, in the appropriate amounts.

· Pond owners usually under-estimate the volume of their pond which leads to incorrect surface acre measurements and incorrect product usage.

o A licensed applicator is able to accurately measure the pond’s volume and calculate the proper amount of product to be used.

So, ask yourself these questions:

· Am I willing to take the time to read product labels, making sure to pay close attention to warnings, safety instructions, and restrictions?

· Am I able to correctly identify the plants causing the problem?

· Can I accurately calculate the amount of product required to do the job?

· Do I have the proper application and safety equipment to apply the herbicide?

· Do I really feel comfortable handling chemicals?

If the answer is “no” to any of these questions, licensed applicators should be contacted. AQUA DOC will send a licensed applicator to your home or business to assess your lake or ponds needs to properly determine the best maintenance program.

Lynch, Bill (2010). Applying Aquatic Herbicides: Yourself or Pay Someone? Columbus, OH: OSU Natural Resources.

Coontail:

2011-05-17T17:14:00.002-04:00

Coontail is an aquatic plant that can grow in large colonies. It can be found in quiet lakes, ponds, and streams. It is usually submerged but may sometimes float on the surface. Coontail will reproduce quickly by fragmentation and can easily take over a body of water. It can be treated using a 2,4 D such as Navigate or Diquat such as Reward.

AQUA DOC Blue:

2011-05-13T17:24:00.000-04:00

AQUA DOC Blue is a great way to keep your pond aesthetically pleasing. It gives the water a pleasant blue color, while inhibiting aquatic plant growth. It can be used in natural and manmade lakes and ponds, ornamental, and fish farming bodies of water with little or no overflow.

This product prevents the sun’s UV light from penetrating submerged weed and algae growth, which breaks the cycle of photosynthesis. It should be applied at a rate of 1 to 2 quarts per surface acre (43,560 sq ft). For best results, apply AQUA DOC Blue to your water in the early Spring before the plants have time to establish (February – April), and throughout the season to prevent regrowth. There are no restrictions on swimming, fishing, irrigation, or stock watering with this product.

AQUA DOC Blue can purchased online or over the phone for the value price of $24.95 per quart. Call today!

Pond Turnover:

2011-05-11T17:35:00.000-04:00

Pond turnover is the mixing of the stagnant, stratified layers of water in a pond. The upper level of water is known as the epilimnion. This is where the water warm and has a high oxygen content. This is also where fish are found. The middle layer is known as the thermocline. This is where the water temperature and oxygen level will gradually decline with increasing depth. The lowest layer is the hypolimnion. This is the layer that is the coldest and is the most oxygen deprived.

Pond turnover occurs when weather conditions favor the mixing of these different layers. In the Fall, the upper level is cooled by the colder air. This makes the water more dense and it will sink to the bottom. This will cause the bottom layer to then rise to the top. The opposite occurs after the winter when the water warms-up in the Spring. Pond turnover can also be caused by cold rains or high winds during the summer. This event can cause fish kills because the deoxygenated water is brought to the surface where the fish dwell, and can suffocate them.

Koi:

2011-05-10T17:38:00.002-04:00

Koi are ornamental varieties of the common carp. The word “Koi” literally means “carp” in Japanese. However, Koi can also mean “affection” or “love” and so the Koi is a symbol of love and friendship in Japan and all throughout the world. Koi can have many different colors, patterns, and scalation. Most colors are white, black, red, yellow, orange, and blue. Koi are genetically selected carp for their coloration. The carp that produced different colors out of a batch of fry were used to produce another generation, and over time, the fish produced brighter and brighter colors. This is why if Koi are allowed to reproduce naturally they will become all grey-colored after a few generations.

In order to keep Koi in Ohio, it is recommended that a pond be at least 4 feet deep. This will help the fish to survive the cold winter. The Koi are most active when the water temperature is between 59 and 77 degrees. During the winter when the water temperature is low, you do not need to feed your Koi. The digestive tract of the fish will slow down so much that if they are fed, food will just sit in their stomach and may cause them to become ill. It is also recommended that Koi are only raised in ponds that have a liner or in watergardens. If stocked in an earthen pond, the Koi will constantly stir up the mud on the bottom of the pond causing the water to always be turbid. This will deter swimming and other activities.

AQUA DOC carries several different types of Koi that you can add to your own backyard pond.

Purple Loosestrife:

2011-05-09T17:44:00.000-04:00

Purple Loosestrife is an herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It was probably introduced to North America through the shipping trade. It is an invasive species that can reduce the biological diversity of native plants which can affect the life cycles of other organisms such as waterfowl, fish, and amphibians.

This is a colonial plant that can grow 1 to 1.5 meters tall. Many long stems will grow out of one root mass. The flowers are reddish purple and are 10mm to 20mm in diameter. Purple Loosestrife reproduces extremely quickly as it produces 2 million seeds annually.

Nostoc:

2011-05-06T17:47:00.000-04:00

Nostoc is a genus of cyanobacteria. It forms colonies encased in a gelatinous sheath. It can be found in soil, on rocks, and in lakes and ponds. Nostoc can live in extremely cold or arid conditions. This ability to survive these conditions makes them particularly interesting to scientists. Nostoc also has the ability to lie dormant for long periods of time and recover metabolic activity after it is rehydrated. When Nostoc is in the dry soil it may not be visible to the eye. However, after it rains, the Nostoc will expand and form visible spherical colonies. There are over 200 species of Nostoc, some of which are edible and are considered a delicacy in China.

The Great Blue Heron:

2011-05-05T17:52:00.002-04:00

The Great Blue Heron is a large wading bird. It is common near open water and wetlands. It has a wide distribution and can be found all throughout North and Central America, as well as the West Indies. This heron has a blue body, a grey neck, and a white face. Its long legs allow it to feed deeper than most other birds. It will eat fish, shrimp, crabs, rodents, frog, turtles, and snakes.

Unfortunately, the beautiful koi pond that you have in your back yard will attract these birds, and they will feed on your expensive koi. They are attracted to these small ponds because it will save them time and energy when hunting for food, because the koi are right there for the taking.

Herons can be deterred from your pond in several ways. A “fence” can be built around the pond using fishing string. The fence should be about 14 inches high so that the heron cannot reach over it. However, this solution will not always work because the heron can just land directly in the pond. Another device is the scare crow. This will spray a stream of water at any movement that it detects and scare away the heron. Also, a heron decoy can be placed at the pond. This decoy will be much larger than an average-sized heron so that real herons will not want to get in the way of the larger, fake heron.

Harmful Algal Blooms:

2011-05-04T17:13:00.001-04:00

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are caused by planktonic bacteria. Cyanobacteria is not a true algae. These bacteria can float and form “scums” near the surface. An HAB can often times be confused with duckweed or watermeal, both of which are aquatic plants. HABs cause problems when environmental conditions, often human induced, favor their growth.

HAB cyanobacteria consists of Microcystis, Lyngbya, Anabaena, Nostoc, Aphanizomenon, Planktothrix, and Cylindrospermopsis. Factors that contribute to HABs include:

· Excess nutrients in water

· Sunlight

· Low-water or low-flow conditions

· Calm water

· Warm temperatures

· Low salinity

· Selective grazing by zooplankton. (Zooplankton may choose not to eat the cyanobacteria)

HABs can cause taste and odor problems in water, pollute beaches with scum, reduce oxygen levels for fish, cause processing problems in water supplies, and produce toxic chemicals. The toxins produced can be nerve toxins, liver toxins, and skin toxins. The toxicity level depends on the strains of bacteria present and on environmental conditions.

The World Health Organization states that monitoring of public drinking water should be increased after cyanobacteria concentrations reach 1 ppb (parts per billion). Risk of health problems from recreational contact is considered to be low at 4 ppb and moderate at 20 ppb.

The best way to reduce your risk of being harmed by HABs is to avoid waters with HAB advisories, water that is pea green, water with floating bright green scum, and discoloration. Rinse family members, pets, and yourself after swimming in natural waters. Do not drink natural water and do not eat fish from waters experiencing an HAB event.

Signs of HAB poisoning include:

· Numbness of lips

· Tingling in fingers and toes

· Dizziness

· Headache

· Rash

· Abdominal pain

In pets:

· Weakness

· Staggering

· Convulsions

· Vomiting

· Respiratory distress

HABs can be prevented by eliminating excess nutrient sources. Limiting the use of lawn and plant fertilizers, maintaining septic systems, not allowing geese to reside at your pond, and maintaining natural plants in the watershed will all help reduce nutrient sources.

Sago Pondweed:

2011-05-03T17:39:00.002-04:00

Sago pondweed is a perennial aquatic plant. It forms thick mats under the water’s surface; it does not have any floating leaves. Sago pondweed has leaves that grow in thick layers and produces nut-like fruit that is 1/8” to 1/4” long. The submerged stems of this plant provide a habitat for many micro and macro invertebrates which in turn provide food for fish and other wildlife. Because sago pondweed reproduces by fragmentation, it can easily take over an entire body of water. This can disrupt recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing. Sago pondweed can be treated with copper, endothall, and fluridone.

Tadpoles and Frogs:

2011-05-02T17:29:00.000-04:00

Tadpoles, also known as polliwogs, are the larval stage of the life cycle of frogs or toads. They metamorphosize from the tadpole stage into a fully grown frog or toad in 12 to 16 weeks. When the tadpoles first emerge from the egg, they attach themselves to submerged leaves or grasses where they remain “stuck” for about 1 week. Here, they consume the remaining yolk from their own egg. After 7 to 10 days, they will detach from the pond’s bottom and begin to consume algae and phytoplankton. At this point, they have one long tail to help them swim through the water. After 4 to 7 weeks the tadpole will begin to develop lungs. During this time, the tadpoles will begin to spend more time at the surface of the water to breathe. After 6 to 9 weeks have passed, the tadpole will begin to grow small legs. The back legs form first, followed by the arms. The final transformation stage is when the mouth changes from a small hole, to a mouth the width of the whole head. The entire process is complete after 12 to 16 weeks.

Frogs are important to ecosystems because they control insect populations and they are also a food source for some fish and water fowl. Frogs are also good bioindicators meaning that the presence of frogs in a body of water is a good indication that that water is clean and the ecosystem is healthy.

K-Tea Algaecide:

2011-04-29T17:02:00.000-04:00

K-Tea is an algaecide that can be used to treat a broad spectrum of algae including blue-green, green, diatoms, and flagellates. It can be used in slow moving bodies of water and on free-floating or mat algae. The active ingredient is copper hydroxide and it can be used every 10 to 14 days. Application can be done by boat or by standing on the shore. K-Tea can also be used in combination with other herbicides to control aquatic weeds and algae more effectively. This product is very beneficial because it does not pose a threat to people or wildlife and there are no restrictions on water use after application.

Curly-Leaf Pondweed:

2011-04-28T16:39:00.000-04:00

Curly-leaf pondweed is an aquatic perennial plant. It is native to Eurasia, Africa, and Australia. It was accidentally introduced to the US in the mid-1800s by hobbyists who used it for aquarium décor. Now, it is an invasive species in the US.

The leaves are reddish-green, have wavy edges, and are about 3” long. The stems grow between 1’ and 3’ in water that is 3’ to 10’ deep. It also prefers water with high alkalinity and rich in nutrients. Curly-leaf pondweed has been reported in every state except for Maine.

Curly-leaf pondweed reproduces using burrs that float away from the mother plant through the water. These burrs can be transported by water currents, boats, motors, fishing gear, and wildlife. This plant is often the first to arrive in the spring because it actually begins to grow mid-winter, under the ice. It tolerates low light levels and low temperatures. These attributes help it to establish first, and to not allow the growth of other native plants.

This plant spreads very quickly and can easily overtake a body of water. It can be controlled using a diquat herbicide such as Reward, or, a salt of endothall such as Aquathall K.

Join us at our next event!

2011-04-26T16:59:00.000-04:00

AQUA DOC Lake & Pond Management will be exhibiting at the Central Ohio Chapter CAI Trade Fair. This show will feature many local business that can improve communities. Visit us at this event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel North.

6500 Doubletree Ave.
Columbus, OH 43229

Show Hours:

1:00pm - 3:00pm

Microcystis:

2011-04-25T16:49:00.002-04:00

Microcystis is a planktonic blue-green algae. It forms irregular colonies where the cells cluster in a gelatinous matrix. The colony will trap air to maintain buoyancy at the surface of the water. Microcystis reproduces by cell division and it can easily take over the whole surface of the water. Algae blooms that cover the entire water’s surface will prevent oxygen exchange between the water and the atmosphere which will deplete the water of oxygen.

Microcystis can grow in warm freshwater that is rich in nutrients. It can secrete toxins into the water that will be harmful to people and wildlife. It can also give water a bad taste and smell. Microcystis can be treated with Cutrine Ultra.

Water Shield

2011-04-22T16:35:00.002-04:00

Water shield is a perennial aquatic plant with small floating leaves. These leaves usually grow to about five inches in diameter and are green on the top, and a reddish brown on the bottom. This plant has small flowers that will grow above the water’s surface that are a dull red color with three to six petals. Submerged parts of the plant provide a habitat for micro and macro invertebrates as well as fish and amphibians. The seeds are eaten by ducks and other waterfowl while the roots are eaten by muskrats and nutria. Water shield thrives in lakes, ponds, and slow streams. The plants produce specialized buds called turions. These buds will detach from the mother plant and float away to a new location where they can establish a new plant. In shallow lakes and ponds, water shield may cover the entire surface of the water and will not allow for the growth of native plants. It can also make it difficult for fish to find food and for people to enjoy recreational activities on the water. Water shield can be controlled with a combination of Aqua Pro and Cide Kick II. These products can help reduce the amount of vegetation in the water so that people and wildlife can enjoy it.

The Yellow Perch

2011-04-21T16:56:00.002-04:00

The yellow perch, or shortform perch, is a sport fish native to North America. It grows between 4” and 10” and can live up to 11 years. The record-sized yellow perch is 21”, 4.2lbs. This fish will lay 10,000 to 40,000 eggs in the early spring. The fry will reach sexual maturity after 1-3 years. It relies on invertebrates, other fish, fish eggs, and crayfish as food sources. Yellow perch are distinguished by their yellow coloration and the 6-8 dark, vertical stripes.

Yellow perch, like most other fish rely on vegetation such as shoreline reeds and aquatic plants to spawn and take shelter in. This is why it is important to manage your lake or pond at 20% vegetation coverage.

The yellow perch is a great sport fish because it is easy to catch, tastes good, and can be caught in any season. AQUA DOC offers several fish stocking programs, each offering a variety of fish choices. The yellow perch can be added to any of these orders. The yellow perch, largemouth bass, and bluegill will ensure that you have an exciting fishing experience at your lake or pond.

Navigate

2011-04-20T16:25:00.001-04:00

Navigate is a 2, 4 D herbicide that can be used to treat a variety of aquatic weeds. This is a systemic herbicide that will translocate into the root system. It is effective on Eurasian water milfoil, stargrass, water lilies, water shield, and much more. Navigate should be applied in the spring and early summer when the weeds first begin to grow. One 50 pound bag can treat a 1/2 acre pond.

Water Shield

Naiads

2011-04-19T16:31:00.000-04:00

Naiads are an annual, freshwater aquatic plant. Its leaves are 1” long and very narrow. Leaves are arranged in a whirl around the stem in groups of three. Stems grow 10” to 25” in length. Naiads can grow completely submerged or form floating mats. It will reproduce through seeds or by fragmentation.

You should begin treating naiads as soon as the plants begin growing under the surface and once the water temperature is above 60 degrees. A granular herbicide can be sprinkled into the water to treat the submersed weed while a liquid herbicide can be sprayed onto the floating mats. Reward and Hydrothol 191 are both effective in controlling naiads.

Hydrothol 191

2011-04-18T16:53:00.000-04:00

Hyrothol 191 is a broad spectrum algaecide and herbicide (salt of endothall). This product is a good alternative to using copper products. It is available in liquid or granular forms to control both floating and submersed aquatic weeds and algae. It quickly dissipates in the environment and will not bioaccumulate in fish or soil. Hydrothol 191 has a half-life of less than one week. It will not harm fish or wildlife and can be used to control hydrilla, milfoil, pond weeds, elodea, chara, spirogyra, and pithophora. It is effective in turbid water because it will not bind to suspended sediment.

Water Stargrass:

2011-04-15T17:32:00.002-04:00

Water Stargrass is so named for the star shaped flowers that rise above the water’s surface. It has grass-like stems with thin branches. These stems can grow up to six feet long and form floating colonies. This aquatic plant reproduces through seeds and fragmentation. Small pieces of stems can break off, lay dormant under mud, and then sprout in the spring. The floating colonies provide an important habitat for macro and micro invertebrates. These invertebrates an important in the food chain for fish, amphibians, and water fowl.

Water Stargrass can grow in shallow water in streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes. It can also grow in mud banks and in water with high salinity. It can even grow on land if stems are washed ashore. This plant can be controlled using Reward herbicide.

Anabaena:

2011-04-14T17:37:00.000-04:00

Anabaena is a type of cyanobacteria that contains over 40 species. It can live in waters with a diverse range of temperatures and salinity. Anabaena is a well studied organism in the scientific community due to its formation of specialized cells. These are cells called heterocysts which are vegetative cells that have lost the ability to photosynthesize. However, they have gained the ability to fix nitrogen in low oxygen conditions. It is a colonial organism that forms long chains called trichomes which reproduce by fragmentation.

Anabaena form symbiotic relationships with other species of plants. In a symbiotic relationship, both the host organism and the occupant organism benefit from each other. Anabaena lives inside of other plants where it is protected from predation. The host plant is benefitted by this because the Anabaena can fix nitrogen that the plant can then use for protein formation and the creation of nucleic acids and other cellular constitutes. Plants that may contain anabaena are ferns, liverworts, and angiosperms (flowering plants). While Anabaena can benefit plants, it can be harmful to animal species that drink water contaminated with the cyanobacteria. Because of this, Anabaena should be controlled with Cutrine Ultra algaecide.

Pithophora

2011-04-13T17:50:00.000-04:00

Pithophora is a type of filamentous algae that thrives in shallow ponds high in nitrogen and phosphorus. It is bright green or brown in color and can form dense mats at the surface of the pond. It can be one of the most difficult types of algae to control. In heavy wind or rain, the algal mats will sink to the bottom and then float back to the top. Pithophora floats by trapping air bubbles at the surface where it forms tangled clumps that resemble cotton or wool. This algae can be treated with a diquat herbicide, applied at a rate of 1-2 gallons per surface acre.

Diptera:

2011-04-12T17:42:00.002-04:00

The order Diptera contains the True Flies. A true fly has one single pair of wings on the thorax; two pairs of wings would put the fly into different insect families. This order contains over 240,000 species including the mosquito, gnats, and midges. As the ice on top of your pond melts, you may notice the tiny macroinvertebrate larvae of the true flies in the water. This should not alarm you. These larvae, including mosquito larvae, are a very important part of the food chain in the pond’s ecosystem. Fish fry, tadpoles, and other organisms will all consume these as a major part of their diet.

Largemouth Bass:

2011-04-11T17:37:00.000-04:00

The largemouth bass is also referred to as the widemouth bass or the bucketmouth. This fish is olive green with dark blotches that form a horizontal line along the body. It is distinguished from the smallmouth bass by noticing that the upper jaw extends past the eye. The record size is 29.5” and 25 lbs. They can live up to 16 years.

Adult largemouth bass will eat bluegill, snails, crawfish, frogs, salamanders, even small mammals or birds. In lakes and ponds with heavy vegetation, the largemouth bass may not be able to find enough food to survive. However, in lakes and ponds with scarce vegetation, the largemouth bass will decimate other fish populations.

The largemouth bass will bite at lures, plastic worms, jigs, crank bait, and spinners. They have been introduced to many lakes and ponds because they are a good sport fish and have a mild taste. In Canada, they are an invasive species where they bring sea lice and eat native fish species, greatly reducing their populations.

Spatterdock:

2011-04-08T16:30:00.000-04:00

Spatterdock, also known as the Cow Lily, is a large aquatic plant with floating or emerged heart-shaped leaves. It blooms yellow flowers from June through September that appear to be “half-opened”. Spatterdock can grow in lakes, ponds, and sluggish streams where it establishes its large leaves, thick stems, and flowers. Spatterdock spreads easily through pollination by insects and can quickly take over the surface of a body of water. This aquatic plant can be treated with a glyphosate herbicide such as AquaPro mixed with Cide Kick-II.

UltraClear Dechlorinator:

2011-04-07T17:31:00.000-04:00

Tap water and well water contain chemicals that are unsafe for watergardens or aquariums. Tap water contains high chlorine levels while well water contains extra metals and water hardness. UltraClear Dechlorinator is formulated to make tap water safe for fish, wildlife, and plants. It accomplishes these 4 tasks:

1. Removes chlorine and chloramines

2. Promotes slime coat to protect fish gills

3. Detoxifies heavy metals

4. Reduces nitrate buildup

UltraClear Dechlorinator contains sodium thiosulfate which is a safe chemical that neutralizes chlorine. This product also contains polyvinylpyrrolidones which are polymers that promote the slime coat on fish at a healthy level. There are also organic chelating compounds that detoxify heavy metals and proprietary reducing agents that reduce nitrogen levels.

This product is safe for use in watergardens, freshwater, and saltwater aquariums. It should be used at a rate of 8 ounces per 1,000 gallons of water.

Tapegrass

2011-04-06T17:28:00.002-04:00

Tapegrass, also referred to as Wild Celery and Eelgrass, is a perennial grass with long narrow leaves. This plant is almost entirely submerged except for the single white, female flowers that grow above the surface. Tapegrass consists of flat, thin, ribbon-like leaves that are up to 3 meters long and only 2.5 centimeters wide. It can be distinguished from other aquatic grasses by the stripe or midrib running down the center of each leaf. Tapegrass produces cylindrical pods that contain seeds but its primary mode of spreading is by runners under the soil that allow it to form thick meadows. This aquatic plant is native to eastern North America where it grows in lakes, ponds, and streams that are 1 meter to 4 meters in depth. Here, it provides a habitat for fish and other invertebrates, and provides food for waterfowl.

Tapegrass has the potential to form dense meadows where it can become troublesome for fisherman, boaters, and swimmers. It can be controlled with granular hydrothol which can be applied at a rate of 27-136 pounds per acre foot. Liquid hydrothol can also be used at a rate of 1-3 gallons per acre foot. After the Tapegrass has been eliminated, AQUA DOC blue can be applied at a rate of 1 quart per acre foot to shade light from stimulating the growth of new Tapegrass.

Phragmites: The Common Reed

2011-04-05T17:42:00.000-04:00

Phragmites, or the Common Reed, is a perennial grass that grows in temperate and tropical environments all over the world. It can form extensive strands called reed beds that can take up as much as half a square mile of land. Each stalk can grow from 6-8’ in height. The leaves are very long for a grass measuring 7-20”, and 2-3cm in width. Phragmites grows in wetland areas or on the banks of lakes and ponds. This reed provides an animal habitat but it can also crowd out other vegetation from growing in and near the water. Phragmites can be controlled using a systemic herbicide such as glyphosate. Glyphosate should be applied at a rate of 4-6lbs per acre during the late fall.

The Channel Catfish

2011-04-04T16:46:00.000-04:00

The channel catfish is North America’s most popular catfish. It is the official state fish of Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Tennessee. This fish is becoming increasingly popular as a food and has led to numerous stocking and aquaculture programs across the states. The channel catfish thrives in large rivers, reservoirs, lakes, and ponds. They are cavity nesters meaning that they lay their eggs in cavities, hollows, and debris to shelter them from currents.

The channel catfish has taste buds all over its body, this feature, along with long whiskers, allows it to find food in dark, muddy, and turbid waters. This fish is omnivorous and it will bite many types of bait including worms, crickets, frogs, crawfish, and minnows.

Channel catfish can be identified by the dark spots along its body and its rounded anal fin. If the anal fin is squared then it is the blue catfish. The channel catfish has the potential to reach 40-50 lbs in the wild, with the world record being 58 lbs. However, average size is under 10 lbs.

GreenClean

2011-04-01T17:40:00.000-04:00

GreenClean is a granular peroxide based algaecide (Sodium Carbonate Peroxhydrate). It is one of the few algaecides that does not contain copper so it is safe to use in smaller koi ponds. It should be sprinkled directly on nuisance algae and it will begin to release oxygen as it controls algae growth and biodegrades. Application rate is 3-17 pounds per acre-foot, depending on the resiliency of the algae.

THE WHITE AMUR

2011-03-31T16:50:00.000-04:00

The White Amur/Grass Carp:

The White Amur is an herbivorous, freshwater fish that is native to North Vietnam. It was introduced to the United States in 1963 to be used for aquatic weed control. Amurs have an elongate, thick body. The lateral line contains 40-42 scales. The body is green to yellow-brown with a white belly. They also have broad pharyngeal teeth. The White Amur grows rapidly and can eat up to 3 times its body weight in one day.

The White Amur is now considered to be an invasive species in the United States due to the sometimes detrimental effects it can have on ecosystems. The Amur was introduced to eat aquatic vegetation, and that is just what it does. It will eat all of the vegetation in a body of water. If your goal is to achieve a pond that has absolutely no plants, such as a pond just for swimming, the Amur will keep the pond free of weeds. However, if you desire to have a pond that is a balanced, healthy ecosystem that supports the growth of other fish species, the Amur should not be stocked in your pond.

A balanced ecosystem will contain 15-20% vegetation that will be a habitat for fish and other organisms. The Amur will not support this balance. The only fish that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources recommends to be stocked are largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and redear sunfish.

Lyngbya

2011-03-30T16:54:00.000-04:00

Lyngbya is a filamentous blue-green (cyanobacteria) algae. It is composed of single cells that are covered by a sheath. There are over 60 species of Lyngbya that occupy fresh, brackish, and marine waters. They thrive in warm water with abundant nutrients. Lyngbya forms large, brown or green colored mats that float to surface and are slimy and emit a foul odor. The dense mat structure does not allow oxygen in so anaerobic bacteria (sulfur producing) can thrive which causes the odor.

Some species of Lyngbya produce volatile organic compounds that can cause a bad taste in fish and water. Lyngbya can also cause eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Contact dermatitis or Swimmer’s Itch has been reported in some warmer climates due to Lyngbya.

American Elodea:

2011-03-29T17:02:00.000-04:00

American Elodea is native to North America where it is an important plant for aquatic ecosystems. It is also used as aquarium vegetation. Elodea is entirely submerged except for the small white flowers that break the surface. It can be identified by having 3 leaves per whirl on the stems. Elodea does not heavily rely on seed production to reproduce. In the fall, stalks detach from the parent plant, float away, root, and form a new plant. This reproduction behavior allows these plants to form dense mats that are beneficial for fish habitats but deter recreational activities such as boating and swimming. Elodea can be treated with Reward/Hydrothol.

"Spring Clean" your Watergarden:

2011-03-28T17:07:00.000-04:00

Cleaning out your watergarden is an important step to take after the winter to ensure that your pond will look beautiful all summer long. Cleaning will ensure that muck and debris build up are removed. This will prevent algal blooms due to excess nutrients from decaying matter in the pond. AQUA DOC offers a Spring Cleaning Program as a part of the Full Season Watergarden Maintenance Program. This Spring Cleaning Program consists of:

1. Removing the net from pond and disposing of leaves and material buildup.

2. Draining the water and removing the fish.

3. Shop-Vac and Power washing the pond interior.

4. Reconnecting any pumps that were removed for the winter.

5. Cleaning filter media and debris.

6. Checking for leaks.

7. Resetting stones and plants that may have moved.

8. Filling with clean water.

9. Returning fish to pond.

10. Adding a dechlorinator to the water.

AQUA DOC’s Spring Cleaning Program is a great way to jump start any watergarden maintenance program so that your pond will be clean and healthy all year!

Oscillatoria

2011-03-25T17:03:00.002-04:00

Oscillatoria is a genus of filamentous algae that contains more than 70 species. It can occupy diverse habitats such as hot springs, marine habitats, and temperate, tropical, and polar lakes and ponds. Oscillatoria is a deep blue-green or brown color. It first forms dense, slimy, benthic (bottom) mats on mud or rocks. Sometimes these mats detach and float to the surface. Like other filamentous algal genera, oscillatoria reproduces by fragmentation.

Oscillatoria is so named due to the slow “oscillations” or rhythmic movements of the colonies. It is thought that oscillatoria can move using a mucilage sheath and sliding back and forth against other cells to propel themselves. They could also expel the mucilage from one end of the cell in order to propel themselves in the opposite direction. These colonies can move to orient with sunlight or with nutrient rich pockets of water.

Hydrodictyon

2011-03-24T16:58:00.000-04:00

Hydrodictyon is a type of filamentous algae that forms in clean, eutrophic water. This genus is also known as water net because it forms colonies that resemble netlike hollow sacks. These colonies can grow to be 4-6 centimeters wide and 1 meter long. The cells form large pentagonal or hexagonal mesh. Because hydrodictyon reproduces very rapidly by biflagellated zoospores, it can take over a pond very quickly. The large mats will cover the water’s surface and can block sunlight from penetrating the pond to reach other plants and organisms below the surface. The best method of treatment for this algae is hydrothol or copper sulfate.

American Pondweed

2011-03-23T16:55:00.000-04:00

American Pondweed is an aquatic plant that has floating leaves as well as few submerged leaves. These leaves are elliptical or oval in shape and are 4-7” long and 1-2” wide. This is a perennial plant that has fruits that above the water and are a dark red or brown color. American Pondweed can form dense mats which can block sunlight from entering the pond.

This plant can be removed by raking but it will reestablish from remaining roots and seeds. American Pondweed can be treated using chelated or compound copper formulas, Reward and Cide Kick II, or dipotassium salts of endothall.

Bluegill

2011-03-22T16:55:00.000-04:00

Bluegill are native to North America from Quebec to northern Mexico. They range in size from 6-8 inches and .25 to .50 pounds. They are in the sunfish family and are sometimes referred to as a bream, brim, or copper nose. The Bluegill is the state fish of Illinois.

The Bluegill is known for being a popular game fish that is common and easy to fish. They can be caught with live bait, flies, corn, and spinners. Often times they bite at brightly colored bait at dawn and dusk. In a lake or pond, they seek underwater vegetation for shelter.

Some male Bluegill will assume the coloration of a female so that nest guarding males will not be aggressive toward them.

The Redear Sunfish

2011-03-16T17:03:00.000-04:00

The Redear Sunfish, also known as the shellcracker or cherry gill, is one of the most popular fish to be stocked in Ohio lakes and ponds. They are native to the Southeastern United States but due to their reputation as a good sporting fish, they are now stocked all over North America. They are strong fighters but they prefer natural bait such as worms, crickets, and grubs.

The Redear Sunfish is called the shellcracker because it prefers to consume snails. It has recently been used as a method of biological control to manage the invasive species, quagga mussels. They have hard moveable plates in their throat which grants them the ability to crush mollusk exoskeletons. This mollusk feeding niche allows for the Redear Sunfish to have little competition between other fish species allowing it to survive during food shortages.

This sunfish is dark colored dorsally and yellow-green ventrically. Adults can reach 20-24cm. The world record Redear Sunfish is 5 pounds, 3 ounces.

Restocking a Winterkill Pond

2011-03-15T17:00:00.000-04:00

A winter fish kill can occur in any pond. Even if an aerator or heater is in place, fish still experience different levels of shock throughout the winter. Snow can pile up on top of the ice which will reduce sunlight penetration and cause oxygen levels to decline. An aerator will add some oxygen to the water, but it will not do any good if all of the oxygen is used up by the organisms and fish in the pond. A heater will attempt to keep the water temperature up, but changing water temperatures from warm to cold to warm will send the fish into shock, causing them to die. If you see many dead fish in your pond, you should first assess whether a total fish kill or a partial fish kill has occurred.

The first step is to try to catch some fish, especially bluegills. Also, try to record the species and sizes of the fish that have died. This should be done in the early spring. If you have been fishing for hours and have not caught anything, a total fish kill has likely occurred. If few bluegills are caught, but no bass, a partial kill has occurred.

If some bluegills survived, they may not need re-stocked. Bluegills produce large numbers of offspring and will easily rebound. In a partial kill, bass, catfish, and grass carp are often the species that require re-stocking.

There are only four recreational species that survive well in ponds and small lakes. These are largemouth bass, bluegill sunfish, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. If other species are stocked they could greatly disrupt the established fish communities. Fish should be stocked in the spring or the fall when the water temperature is less than 60 F and preferably around 50 F. Fathead minnows can be stocked in the spring and be allowed to spawn naturally. The large amount of minnow prey will greatly enhance the survival rate and growth of the other stocked fish. Predators will be able to prey on the minnows instead of the other stocked fish fry.

AQUA DOC provides four different fish stocking programs to meet your pond’s individual needs. Call us today to set up your free consultation!

Largemouth Bass

Bluegill

Channel Catfish

Redear Sunfish

The Toledo Home Improvement and Garden Show

2011-03-11T16:45:00.000-05:00

Come visit AQUA DOC in Toledo!

Seagate Convention Center
Toledo, OH

Friday March 11       4 pm-9 pm
Saturday March 12   10 am-9 pm
Sunday March 13     10 am-9 pm

Booth #214

How can a fountain benefit my pond?

2011-03-11T16:38:00.000-05:00

Not only can a floating fountain add beauty to your pond, it can also help to aerate the water, increase oxygen levels, and deter the establishment of aquatic weeds and algae. The more water moves, the more oxygen it contains which helps keep the ecosystem healthy. A lake or pond that experiences little movement will result in thermal stratification (different temperature layers). At the bottom of a lake or pond, it is very cold and oxygen depleting bacteria can grow and absorb all of the oxygen from the environment. This puts stress on fish and other aquatic organisms. A fountain can help to stir up these layers to prevent stratification.

AQUA DOC carries many types of fountains from Aquamaster, Kasco, Aqua Control, and Otterbein. Each of these brands offers a variety of spray patters that can keep your lake or pond healthy and beautiful.

The Aquamaster fountain system is our top selling brand. Aquamaster offers a wide variety of spray patterns. All of their nozzles are interchangeable (except Captiva) which allows you to customize your fountain whenever you want. These fountains create beautiful scenes while improving water quality. Aquamaster fountains are built for performance and longevity, while being energy efficient. Aquamaster fountains, 1-5 HP, have many great features such as:

· High efficiency stainless steel impeller system.

· Interchangeable nozzles.

· Optional Night Glow Lighting systems.

· Stainless steel motor housing.

· Exclusive underwater cable disconnect.

· Provides maximum circulation and aeration.

· AquaLock connectors.

AQUA DOC offers a free consultation to come and measure your pond and recommend the appropriate horsepower and size needed.

Turnberry

Crystal Geyser

Applying Aquatic Herbicides: Yourself or Pay Someone?

2011-03-09T16:40:00.000-05:00

· The pond owner does not feel comfortable handling chemicals.

o A licensed applicator knows how to safely handle chemicals and must renew their license every 3 years in Ohio.

· The pond owner needs to be able to properly identify aquatic plants and algae because herbicides and algaecides are very species specific and selective.

o A licensed applicator is trained in species identification and can ensure that the correct product is used, in the appropriate amounts.

· Pond owners usually under-estimate the volume of their pond which leads to incorrect surface acre measurements and incorrect product usage.

o A licensed applicator is able to accurately measure the pond’s volume and calculate the proper amount of product to be used.

So, ask yourself these questions:

· Am I willing to take the time to read product labels, making sure to pay close attention to warnings, safety instructions, and restrictions?

· Am I able to correctly identify the plants causing the problem?

· Can I accurately calculate the amount of product required to do the job?

· Do I have the proper application and safety equipment to apply the herbicide?

· Do I really feel comfortable handling chemicals?

Lynch, Bill (2010). Applying Aquatic Herbicides: Yourself or Pay Someone? Columbus, OH: OSU Natural Resources.

Bladderwart: A Carnivorous Aquatic Plant

2011-03-08T16:28:00.000-05:00

Bladderwart is a carnivorous aquatic plant that is an annual. It lacks roots and has yellow flowers with stems that grow above the surface. Under the water, the petioles (leaf stems) form small “bladders” that are filled with air to help the plant float at the surface. Because this plant often grows where there are low nutrient levels, the bladders also will trap and absorb nutrients from aquatic microorganisms. Also, bladderwart reproduces through stem fragmentation so it is able to spread quickly and can be difficult to control.

Bladderwart can be treated using a diquat herbicide. The herbicide used should be a systemic, contact herbicide that will be absorbed into the entire plant.

Bladders

Aquathol K: Liquid Herbicide

2011-03-07T16:45:00.000-05:00

Aquathol K is an aquatic herbicide that is comprised of 40.3% endothal-potassium and is very site specific. It is a contact herbicide with little dispersion from the treatment area. It can also be used in turbid (muddy) waters because it does not bind to suspended sediment, unlike Reward herbicide. It should be used to remove nuisance plants so that the aquatic habitat can be restored. It can also make recreational activities more enjoyable by removing excess plants in swimming, boating, and fishing areas.

Aquathol K can be used to control Hydrilla, Eurasian Water Milfoil, Curly Pondweed, and most other submersed aquatic plants. It should be applied at a rate of 2 gallons per surface acre after the plants have grown to the surface of the water. This herbicide has a wide margin of tolerance for fish and other aquatic species.

Curly Leaf Pondweed

Revive and Ultra Clear: Eliminating Pond "Muck" Biologically

2011-03-03T10:23:00.000-05:00

Bacteria occur naturally in all bodies of water. They function to digest decaying organic matter that collects at the bottom of lakes and ponds such as leaves, plants, and other organisms that were once living. Adding bacteria to your pond allows for twice as much consumption of sediments which can prevent the build-up of “muck” and the bad odor resulting from decay.

Revive and Ultra Clear Clarifier are biological water clarifiers containing enzymes and bacteria that are formulated to lower the nutrient levels in sediments. They will enhance water quality by using up the excess nitrogen, phosphorus, ammonia, and nitrates. By reducing these nutrients, Revive and Ultra Clear Clarifier will also prevent algal blooms and the abundance of other aquatic plants.

These are safe for use on any aquatic environment and can be used in combination with algaecides and herbicides. Revive should be applied at a rate of 3 pounds per acre foot. To ensure its function it can be re-applied every 2-4 weeks at a rate of 2 pounds per acre foot. Ultra Clear Clarifier can be applied according to label instructions every seven days. These products pose no threat or limitations to humans, pets, fish, or wildlife.

Water Lily Control

2011-03-02T14:11:00.001-05:00

Water lilies can add beauty to a small pond or ornamental water feature. They can provide a habitat and shelter for fish and other wildlife. They also shade the bottom of the pond preventing the growth of algae. Because water lilies are a hardy plant, they can take over a body of water in only a few years. They can then deter fishing and be unpleasing to the eye.

Water lilies can be manually removed with a rake but they will come back because they grow from a bulb. The most effective method of eradicating lilies is to use glyphosate and a surfactant herbicide. These products will be absorbed into the plants roots and into the bulb, preventing their re-growth. When lilies are being sprayed, they should be done in portions. This is because the lilies shade the water and keep the water temperature and light levels down, if they are all removed at once, the water will rapidly warm up and excess light can cause algal blooms.

Planktonic Algae

2011-03-01T09:37:00.000-05:00

Planktonic algae are microscopic algae that are an important part of the food chain for other micro- and macroorganisms as well as freshly-hatched fish fry. Sometimes, planktonic algae can bloom to nuisance levels which can cause oxygen depletion and fish kills.

Planktonic algae are free floating plants that are suspended in the top layers of the water where they can photosynthesize. They are composed of green algae, blue-green algae, diatoms, and euglenas. Because of this composition, some planktonic algae can be toxic to animals and cause a bad taste and odor in the water.

Planktonic algae blooms are caused by excess nutrients in the water from runoff water sources from septic systems, lawn fertilizers, and goose excrement.

These algae blooms can be treated using Copper Sulfate. Planktonic algae have a high reproductive rate and re-blooms can occur. Because of this, several treatments may be needed throughout the season.

Treat your small pond with Weedtrine-D

2011-02-28T09:39:00.000-05:00

Weedtrine-D is an 8.53% diquat dibromide herbicide that can be used in and around still lakes, ponds, and ditches. It is specially formulated for bodies of water that are less than 0.5 surface acres. It is a systemic, contact herbicide that can be used to treat cattails, duckweed, pondweed, milfoil, and naiads, as well as terrestrial grasses and broad-leaf weeds. Weedtrine-D works by disrupting the plant’s cell membrane and altering the process of photosynthesis. It can be applied from mid-April through October for best results.

Naiads

AQUA DOC is on Tour!

2011-02-25T10:16:00.000-05:00

Come visit AQUA DOC at our upcoming trade shows:

The Akron Home and Flower Show

John S. Knight Center, Akron

Friday, Feb. 25         11am-9pm
Saturday, Feb. 26    11am-9pm
Sunday, Feb. 27      11am-6pm

http://www.akronhomeandflowershow.com/

The Central Ohio Home and Garden Show

Ohio Expo Center

(Ohio State Fairgrounds)
717 E. 17th Ave.
Columbus, Ohio

Saturdays: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sundays: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Monday: CLOSED

Tuesday - Friday: Noon - 8 p.m.

http://www.dispatchevents.com/home_garden.php

The Cincinnati Home and Garden Show

The Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati

Saturday, February 26	10:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Sunday, February 27	10:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Monday, February 28	Closed
Tuesday, March 1	Closed
Wednesday, March 2 thru Friday, March 4	Noon to 9:00 PM
Saturday, March 5	10:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Sunday, March 6	10:30 AM to 6:00 PM

http://www.hartproductions.com/home-and-garden-show/visitor-information.html

Problems with Duckweed and Watermeal

2011-02-24T14:57:00.000-05:00

Duckweed and Watermeal are free floating aquatic plants that spread quickly and can be difficult to control. If Duckweed and Watermeal forms a thick layer over the water, it can shade out light from the water column and will not allow other plants to grow. This will reduce the environment for fish and other wildlife. It can also deplete oxygen from the water which will stress the environment causing fish kills. During the summer when the plants are photosynthesizing they may begin to cover the whole surface of the water. In the fall they accumulate starch and sink to the bottom where they lay dormant for the winter. Finally, in the spring they rise to the surface again. This is why it may seem that they “go away” during the fall.

Duckweed is small and bright green with 2-3 leafs per plant. Watermeal resembles tiny green seeds and will look, and feel grainy.

These aquatic plants are spread to lakes and ponds by wildlife such as on the feathers of waterfowl, the coats of mammals, and the shells of turtles. It can reproduce by budding and a new plant will grow every 24 hours.

Watermeal

Control of Duckweed and Watermeal is possible using Fluridone. Fluridone is a liquid herbicide that should be applied at a rate of 1 quart per surface acre. It is most effective when done in two treatments. Use ½ quart for the first application, 10 – 14 days later, apply the second ½. This should be done as soon as the plants rise in the spring. Fluridone is not a contact herbicide and it can remain in the water for as many as 30 days, therefore, it is important that the lake or pond to have little outflow.

Duckweed

Reward Herbicide: Eliminating Weeds Quickly

2011-02-23T10:07:00.000-05:00

Reward herbicide is a fast acting, broad spectrum herbicide used to treat submersed aquatic weeds especially Eloidea, Eurasian Water Milfoil, Coontail, Curly Pondweed, Thin Leaf Pondweed, and Naiads. It is absorbed within minutes by target plants and has no toxicity to fish or wildlife and no water use restrictions. Reward functions by interfering with photosynthesis in the plant tissue.

Reward should be applied at a rate of 1 to 2 gallons per surface acre. Reward is a positively charged ion and can be neutralized by turbid water. Because of this, do not stir up sediment from the bottom of the lake or pond during application. Apply this herbicide during the summer when the top of the plant begins to reach the water’s surface for best results.

Eurasian Water Milfoil - An Invasive Species:

2011-02-22T09:17:00.000-05:00

Eurasian Water Milfoil is a submersed aquatic plant native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. It is an invasive species meaning that it is a non-native nuisance species. It is widely distributed and difficult to control. The introduction of milfoil can drastically alter a lake or pond’s ecology. Milfoil forms dense mats on the surface where it can interfere with light penetration and oxygen consumption. It can also deter recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating.

Milfoil begins its growth in the spring earlier than native aquatic plants. This means that the milfoil will take up root space and shade out beneficial aquatic plants from growing in the ecosystem. Eurasian Water Milfoil is difficult to control because it is able to reproduce through plant fragmentation. This is why it should not be physically raked from the water as small stems left behind can form a new plant.

There are control materials that can be used to kill the plant and roots and allow other plants to establish. Some effective products are: Reward, Navigate, and Sonar.

Filamentous Algae and Cutrine Plus: The Treatment of “Pond Scum”

2011-02-21T11:01:00.000-05:00

What people commonly refer to as "pond scum" is likely Filamentous algae. Filamentous algae is a single-celled algae that forms long visible chains, threads, or filaments. These strands will clump together and form mats that resemble wool or hair. Filamentous algae begins to grow at the bottom of lakes and ponds where the water is shallow, or will attach to rocks and other aquatic plants. It may then detach and float to the surface where it forms large mats.

Cutrine Plus is a non-restricted algaecide that can used in waterways and potable resevoirs. It is available in liquid or granular and is an excellent choice when trying to control Filamentous algae.

Cutrine Plus granular should be applied at a rate of 10 pounds per 1/6 surface acre (7,260 sq ft). Cutrine Plus liquid should be applied at a rate of 0.6 gal per 1 acre foot.

Aqua Pro and Cide-Kick can work wonders on your pond!

2011-02-17T09:53:00.000-05:00

Aqua Pro and Cide-Kick are specially formulated for aquatic use. Aqua Pro is a systemic herbicide meaning that it will be absorbed and translocated throughout the root system of the plant. Because of this, it can be used to control annual and perennial plants as it will be absorbed into bulbs and tubers.

Cide-Kick is a surfactant that aids the Aqua Pro in adhering to the plant so that it will not drip off. We mix 8oz of Aqua Pro with 4oz of Cide-Kick and 2 gallons of water for every 50’x50’ area. This mixture should be applied directly on target plants.

Use these aquatic herbicides to maintain a healthy balance of vegetation. Small patches of plants can be beneficial to the ecosystem by preventing erosion and providing food and shelter for wildlife.

These products can be used to control the growth of: Bulrush, Cattails, Phragmites, Sedges, Smartweed, Spike Rush, Torpedograss, Water Hyacinth, Spatterdock, and Water Lilies.

The Facts about Aquatic Herbicide Use:

2011-02-16T15:03:00.000-05:00

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.

AQUA DOC Blue - Professional Strength Pond Colorant

2011-02-15T13:43:00.000-05:00

AQUA DOC BLUE – Professional Strength Pond Colorant

AQUA DOC Blue can purchased online or over the phone for the value price of $24.95 per quart!

Call today!

Website: http://www.aquadocinc.com/

Toll Free: (800)689-LAKE

AQUA DOC is on the Road!

2011-02-14T15:24:00.000-05:00

AQUA DOC continues to exhibit at the best trade shows in Ohio! This week you can find us at the Ohio Cemetery Association Show from Feb. 17-19. See you there!

Embassy Suites Columbus
2700 Corporate Exchange Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43231

WINTER POND AERATION!

2011-02-11T13:35:00.000-05:00

An aerator can benefit your pond in many ways! As it produces thousands of tiny bubbles that move to the surface, it breaks up the thermocline and allows for mixing of the different layers of water. At the bottom of your pond, the water is cold and stagnant which favors the growth of oxygen-depleating bacteria. An aerator will homogenize the water so that this bottom layer does not form.

In the winter, an aerator will cause a small hole to be kept in the ice. This will aid in oxygen exchange so that the gases from decay and respiration will be able to escape the pond, and new gases from the atmosphere can enter. Pond life uses oxygen while it is hibernating so it is important to allow them enough oxygen to survive through the winter.

For these, and other useful tips on how to keep your pond healthy and beautiful, visit us at one of our upcoming shows:

AKRON HOME & FLOWER SHOW - BOOTH #426

http://www.akronhomeandflowershow.com/

CENTRAL OHIO HOME & GARDEN SHOW - BOOTH #2120

http://www.dispatchevents.com/home_garden.php

CINCINNATI HOME & GARDEN SHOW - BOOTH #408

http://www.hartproductions.com/home-and-garden-show/

GREAT BIG HOME & GARDEN SHOW - IX CENTER, Cleveland OH

2011-02-09T14:53:00.001-05:00

Come see AQUA DOC at the the Great Big Home & Garden Show at the IX Center (Cleveland, OH). The show runs from Feb. 5-13. AQUA DOC is not only an exhibitor, but has a featured watergarden at the CMJ Idea Home.

Thank you for all of the visitors who have come by to see the beautiful waterfeature we built - we have had so much excellent feedback from everyone. Come speak to one of our specialists at Booth 257 to discuss building your own pond. We offer free consultations!

Visit our website for discount coupons: http://www.aquadocinc.com/

Welcome Everyone to AQUA DOC Blog!

2011-02-08T15:30:00.000-05:00

AQUA DOC continues to grow and improve! We have introduced this new blog to our website to keep our customers informed of updates and upcoming events at AQUA DOC. You also will be able to read articles related to lake management and watch informative videos. We invite you to join and participate!