Consulting
Consulting
Wisconsin, Upper Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois
Our collective knowledge of lake and pond biology, ecology, water chemistry, and management in Wisconsin, Upper Michigan, Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota, is primarily why our clients contact us. We treat every consultation as a scientifically based analysis of our client’s ponds. We begin by meeting with the client to determine the nature of their management concerns. We then collect information on the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the pond based on our client’s management goals. By combining and analyzing this information, we can prescribe a management program. On each consultation, our biologists take the necessary time to understand all your goals, concerns, and ideas.
Do you want to reduce the organic muck accumulation in your pond? Our consulting biologists will start by analyzing the depth and organic content of the muck, the plant species and density present in your pond, along with the water chemistry and dissolved oxygen. Sometimes, a specialized combination of bacteria and enzymes is all that is needed. Other times, a large-scale dredging operation may be in order.
Maybe you want to manage your pond to support a quality fishery. What population dynamics do you want in your pond? First, water chemistry analysis coupled with dissolved oxygen readings will be analyzed to ensure that your pond can support a quality fishery. It may be necessary to survey your pond to establish an understanding of the current population base for future stocking. It is often beneficial to install a custom-designed aeration system to destratify your pond.
You may have pondweed and algae growth that is out of control. An analysis of your nutrient composition might be necessary to understand what nutrients are facilitating the problem. We use this information to identify how to get these problematic nutrients under control. Plant and algae species that are out of control must first be identified to select the proper aquatic herbicide for controlling the problematic weeds. A regular treatment schedule might also be necessary to keep your pond looking beautiful.
Some of our clients want their ponds to be as aesthetically pleasing as possible. This may mean installing a proper aeration system coupled with a product metering system. Or it could involve reshaping the surrounding landscape to reduce runoff. Some clients desire a floating island and require assistance in planning, planting, and launching one with native flowers and pond plants. These floating islands can act as wildlife habitats, fish structures, and aid in removing nutrients from the water. Your desired aesthetic may be a decorative fountain with rhythmic nighttime light displays. No matter your goal, we can assist you in the development and implementation of a plan to achieve it.
Contact us to see how we can help you realize the dreams you have for your pond!
