Why Not Prescribe a Lake Wide Copper Sulfate Application?

Copper sulfate is very effective at lysing algal cells, thereby dissolving the algal blooms and mats. It is commonly used by applicators (even when inappropriate) and often overused, as it is not selective in its cidal nature. Looking closely around the shoreline where these algal blooms tend to be blown and concentrate, one will notice schools of larval bass and other fish fry, insects, various amphibians, beneficial plants and so on that are working to diversify and stabilize the ecosystem. All of these organisms are affected by copper sulfate treatments either by direct death or indirectly by loss of habitat or food source. This destabilizes the ecosystem leaving it more vulnerable to expressions of imbalance like algal blooms. To prescribe copper sulfate at this time would be pushing the lake in the wrong direction. A healthy diverse aquatic ecosystem requires the least amount of effort and money to maintain as well as providing the pleasing aesthetics and experiences that result in property appreciation. Dependence on herbicides and algaecides will successfully create the short-term illusion of high water quality, but long-term the create dependency and instability. We have a lake wide general herbicide application scheduled for June 12-13. This treatment is a major shock to the lake system. The nutrients released by the dissolving treated aquatic plants are more than ample to stimulate significant algal blooms. We are hoping that with some rain and mild weather we can get by until late June before any copper sulfate algaecides are used. This is critical as not only are copper treatments ecologically costly but they are financially costly as well. If this summer proves to be as hot and sunny as last, we will need to spend every penny in our aquatic nuisance budget as wisely as possible.