How to Improve Water Clarity in Your Lake or Pond

Clear and healthy water is essential for the well-being of a lake or pond’s ecosystem. If you notice murky water, excessive algae growth, foul odors, plant overgrowth, or thick sludge at the bottom, it means you need to do something to improve water clarity in your lake or pond. Improved water clarity promotes healthier aquatic life, reduces weed growth, and improves aeration.

Aquatic Restoration is a top-rated lake services company that’s committed to maintaining optimal aquatic health. We offer a wide range of services, including lake dredging, siphon installation, spillway renovation, shoreline stabilization, retention pond maintenance, and other lake management services in Georgia. In today’s blog post, we’ll share some of the ways you can improve water clarity in your lake or pond.

Start with a Water Quality Assessment

A water quality test can reveal issues such as high nutrient levels, pH imbalances, or low oxygen content. These results help you decide whether you need to adjust water chemistry, remove sediment, or introduce biological solutions.

Control Excess Nutrients

Nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus fuel algae growth and contribute to murky water. These nutrients often come from lawn fertilizers, animal waste, or runoff from nearby properties. To reduce nutrient input:

Create a buffer zone with native plants around the water to absorb runoff.
Limit the use of fertilizers near shorelines.
Keep livestock or pet waste away from the water’s edge.
You can also add phosphate binders or apply natural barley straw to reduce algae’s access to nutrients.

Introduce Aeration Systems

Aeration is one of the most effective ways to improve water clarity and overall pond health. Adding a fountain, surface aerator, or bottom diffuser system increases oxygen levels and helps circulate the water. This prevents stagnant areas, supports beneficial bacteria, and breaks down organic material more efficiently.

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Use Beneficial Bacteria

Natural bacteria treatments, often called biological pond enhancers, introduce beneficial microbes that break down decaying plant matter, fish waste, and other organic debris. These bacteria help reduce the sludge layer at the bottom of the pond, limit nutrient recycling, and gradually clear the water without harsh chemicals. They are safe for fish, pets, and plants when used correctly.

Manage Algae Growth

Algae are a common cause of green or cloudy water. In addition to nutrient control and aeration, you can manage algae through UV clarifiers, pond dyes, and algaecides. However, chemical treatments should be used cautiously and sparingly to avoid harming aquatic life. In some cases, adding algae-eating fish like grass carp or tilapia can help naturally control algae populations.

Reduce Sediment Disturbance

Sediment stirred up from the bottom can cause water to appear brown or murky. This may be due to bottom-feeding fish, wind, or a lack of vegetation. To minimize sediment disturbance:

Avoid overstocking bottom-feeders like catfish.
Add aquatic plants to stabilize the shoreline and bottom.
Consider dredging if excessive sediment has built up over time.

Maintain a Balanced Fish Population

An unbalanced fish population can negatively affect water clarity. Overstocked ponds or the wrong species can disturb the bottom, increase waste, and eat beneficial plants. Work with a pond management expert to ensure your lake or pond is properly stocked for its size and depth.

Commit to Ongoing Maintenance

Regular monitoring, debris removal, seasonal treatments, and responsible landscaping practices all play a part in keeping your water clean, clear, and healthy year-round.

Trust The Team at Aquatic Restoration for Pond and Lake Management Services

If you need help with improving water clarity in your lake or pond, get in touch with the professionals at Aquatic Restoration. Our team of seasoned professionals is committed to ensuring ponds and lakes are healthy, clean, and vibrant. We stay ahead of the curve by investing in research and development, making us the experts you can count on when you need professional pond and lake management services . With our years of experience, over 100 five-star reviews, and advanced equipment, we are the lake services company to call.

09 / Jul / 2025