Common Issues Seen In Stormwater Management Ponds This Season
As we have entered the growing season, it is important to remember that tree pollen levels are currently elevated. Tree pollen deposits in Stormwater Management (SWM) ponds create a yellow-colored sheen on the water surface which can often be misdiagnosed as algae or a release of petroleum-based products (oil, gas, etc.). This problem has recently been exacerbated by increased winds combined with the budding of trees and the start of the mowing season. Envirotech Environmental Consulting, Inc. (EECI) is aware of the current issues associated with the growing season and recent weather patterns, including elevated tree pollen levels and algae blooms caused by nutrient loading. Our Environmental Management Service (EMS) Supervisors are constantly evaluating site-specific conditions in order to properly identify deficiencies and apply the appropriate Best Management Practices (BMPs). While tree pollen deposits in SWM ponds cannot be treated or removed, they will naturally dissipate over a 3-4 week period depending on weather conditions.
Due to a lack of precipitation, many ponds in the region are drawing down and benthic (pond bottom) soils are being exposed. This may be aesthetically unpleasing and may generate concern from community members.
Because most stormwater retention ponds do not have pond fill wells or natural ground water inputs, they rely on surface water runoff for a hydrology source, and because evaporation rates are extremely high this time of the year, ponds are drawing down. This is a natural process and the water levels will be restored once significant rain events occur again.
If you would like to attend Envirotech’s educational program on storm water pond and wetland management on April 30th at 3pm in the Cafe please send an email to Carol at cgriffin@legumnorman.com. Space is limited.