Off the Record: The why behind water feature management
Several years ago, Jim Skorulski, then a USGA Green Section agronomist, wrote a great article on pond management. He noted that healthy ponds are functional, harmonizing with the landscape, while degraded ones suffer from deteriorated banks, algae blooms and invasive weeds.
The following summarizes some of Skorulski’s management strategies that require understanding pond ecology, design impacts and specific control measures for algae and aquatic plants.
Pond Ecology
Ponds are living ecosystems comprised of bacteria, algae, plants, insects, fish and other organisms. Bacteria play a crucial role as decomposers, breaking down organic materials, while algae serve as primary food producers, producing oxygen and supporting aquatic food webs. However, excessive nutrient levels, often from nitrogen and phosphorus, can trigger algal blooms, leading to unsightly water, unpleasant odors and potential harm to aquatic wildlife.
Aquatic plants also contribute to pond ecology, providing habitat, oxygen and sediment filtration. However, invasive species like Eurasian milfoil and Brazilian waterweed often outcompete native plants, disrupting ecosystems. Age, water source, depth and nutrient levels influence pond biology and appearance.
Older ponds tend to accumulate nutrients and vegetation, while shallow, nutrient-rich ponds are especially prone to algal blooms. Temperature stratification in deeper ponds affects nutrient cycling and oxygen distribution, influencing biological activity and management needs.
Design and Management Impacts
The design and purpose of a water feature significantly affect its management. Irrigation ponds prioritize storage capacity with steep, uniform banks, while multipurpose ponds — used for stormwater retention, habitat, and aesthetics — often feature varied depths and littoral shelves.
Deeper ponds help suppress plants and maintain better water quality by reducing algae proliferation. Ponds fed by springs or wells are generally clearer and nutrient-poor, whereas those recharged by stormwater or effluent water often require more intensive management.
Management begins with an evaluation, including assessing pond size, depth, water source, turbidity and the extent of algae and aquatic plants. Water testing for nutrients and oxygen levels can guide interventions. Developing an integrated management plan involves balancing cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical controls to maintain ecological balance and aesthetics.
Managing Algae and Aquatic Plants
Algae in aquatic systems can become problematic during blooms. Management strategies aim to reduce nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, which fuel algal growth. Methods include water circulation, nutrient inactivation and light reduction using dyes.
Manual removal of algae mats is feasible for small ponds but offers temporary relief. Heavy infestations often require algaecides, such as copper-based or peroxide-based treatments. While effective, these interventions must be part of a broader integrated approach to address underlying nutrient imbalances.
Aquatic plants are essential to pond ecosystems but, with mismanagement, can become problematic for golf courses. Control techniques include:
- Mechanical removal
- Dredging
- Cultural practices
- Biological control
- Chemical herbicides
In summary, effective pond management is an ongoing process requiring regular monitoring and intervention.
Ponds and lakes require tailored management approaches based on design, ecological condition and usage. By integrating environmental knowledge with practical management techniques, facilities can transform their water features from liabilities into valuable assets.
For more information, read Jim Skorulski’s article, Golf Course Water Features Need Management, USGA Green Section Record Vol. 52.
Related Articles
Key factors affecting nutrient levels and algae growth in stormwater ponds
Industry experts share the inside scoop on water feature maintenance
Don’t overlook the importance of water quality
<p>The post Off the Record: The why behind water feature management first appeared on Golfdom.</p>