|
After researching the many options and writing a proposal to the owner of the farm, the Pond Ecology class came up with a course of action to begin restoring the pond. The waterfall was the first idea that we started to make a reality. We knew that a waterfall would help aerate the pond and circulate the water. This would provide the pond with more dissolved oxygen, helping defeat the algae and allow other, healthier life to exist in the pond. After drawing up the
design of the waterfall and ordering the necessary liner, we set aside a day to build it. This included cleaning up the area, setting rocks in place, creating the desired incline, and placing the liner. Since this was done in the late fall, we decided to wait until the spring to get a pump and get the
waterfall flowing.
Part of our plan also included improving the area around the pond in order to reduce erosion and the amount of nutrients that enter the pond. In order to accomplish this, we placed a layer of rocks about one foot wide around the perimeter of the pond. We also plan to plant vegetation around the pond. These native bushes that like wet soil would serve to anchor the soil, take up some of the excess nutrients, and prevent any possible harmful run-off. Some plants
inside the water could also be helpful in increasing the oxygen levels.
We also decided to use barley to reduce the algae in the pond. As barley breaks down, it creates a natural algaecide, preventing the growth of any additional algae. Similarly, we are going to use beneficial bacteria to help break down the organic matter in the water that leads to the buildup of algae,
scum, and bad odors.
Out of all of the options that we considered, the waterfall, rocks, plants, and barley seemed the most practical short term solutions that will, in the long term, result in a healthier ecosystem. In beginning to pull together the pieces of this plan, we have finally been able to apply all our research to
help the pond.
|
|
When we first got to the pond there was loads of algae covering the pond. There were a lot of ducks (counted upto 45 at one time), but no other aquatic life was observed. Seeing this we took action right away.
First we needed to figure out the volume of the pond. To do this we measured the depth of the pond at several points. We had two people paddle a canoe in the pond and one person measure and write the depth information down. I personally did the writing down part. I was not fun getting green algae on you. After the measurements, the Owner wanted us to build a waterfall. The reason for the waterfall is to help circulate the water and add oxygen to the water. This is important for helping other aquatic animials to live that may eat the algae. There was an already made water fall there but not in good shape. The old waterfall though was filled with dead leaves and vines.
Waterfall Construction (fall 2007)
We worked for one full day constructing the waterfall. The first group of students cleaned out leaves and bushes growing in the old waterfall area.It was hard work but we manage to clean it all out. Then the group laide down the pond liner to help prevent water loss while the water goes down the waterfall. Finally we dumped sand on top of the liner and put rocks to make it look nice.
Installing Waterfall Pump (Fall 2008)
The pump powering the waterfall is schedualed to be installed during the fall of 2008. Increased water circulation will hopefully be one link in helping
to improve the water clarity of the Charmingfare Pond.
Evaluation Process
Observations and initial studies of the pond
Considerations
Options for how to improve the condition of the pond
Conclusion
What we've done and how we're monitoring progress
|
