Whether you already have an annual management program in place or you’re in the planning process, consider adding on a mechanical hydro-raking service. A hydro-rake is essentially a floating barge equipped with a backhoe attachment. It can remove up to 500 pounds for muck, detritus, and nuisance plants from the water in a single scoop.

The results are immediate – the restoration of depth and volume will prevent flooding during rainstorms and the removal of nutrient-polluted muck will eliminate a food source for undesirable plants and algae. Hydro-raking provides a modest “reset” of the waterbody, making the implementation of standard annual management services more impactful.

Shoreline erosion is a natural occurrence that’s caused by weather and wildlife, but it can also be expedited by overuse or neglect. Not only is shoreline deterioration unsightly, it can negatively impact the water quality, increase the risk of flooding, and endanger anyone who gets near the shoreline for swimming, fishing, mowing, or enjoyment of nature.

There are a few ways to strengthen a deteriorating shoreline. Beneficial vegetative buffers can be cultivated by introducing native, deep-rooted plants. As the root systems expand, they create a strong structure that contains soil naturally. In severe cases, SOX Solutions can be utilized. This innovative knitted mesh material is filled with loose sediment and strategically anchored for a seamless look. Property owners may choose to integrate sod or landscaping elements to enhance aesthetic appeal. These solutions can halt erosion and prevent poor water quality conditions for many years so that you can focus on proactive annual management strategies.

You may think that fish stocking is reserved for trophy ponds owned by passionate sports fishermen, but all ponds can benefit from the introduction of new fish species. These selections will be based on the challenges your waterbody faces.

For instance, lakes and ponds with invasive aquatic weed infestations may benefit from the introduction of triploid grass carp, which voraciously feed on undesirable plants. This is a fantastic alternative to herbicides in some regions. Lakes and ponds crippled by excessive mosquito populations can benefit from the introduction of small predators like minnows, guppies, and the aptly named mosquitofish as an alternative to larviciding. No matter your annual management goals, there is a fish that can help support them.

It may not be a typical service, but education is as important as any other element of your annual management program. Without understanding the outside factors that impact the balance of your waterbody, it will be more difficult to maintain its health and beauty. Whether your waterbody is located in a homeowners community, a private property, or a municipal area, it’s crucial to keep others informed about their impact on the land around them:

• Encourage residents to properly dispose of pet waste and trash
• Keep surrounding land clear of grass clippings, twigs, and other debris
• Allow native plants and grasses to grow, untrimmed, around the shoreline
• Reduce use of lawn and garden fertilizers, or switch to organic products
• Report the presence of suspected invasive plants and animals
• Speak with an Aquatic Biologist before applying any products to the water