How to Control Algae in Water Impoundments, Reservoirs and Dams

Water Management a perenial problem| water impoundments | reservoirs | dams

The management of large volumes of water in reservoirs, dams and water impoundments is a perennial problem for water managers. Frequently these water impoundments are subject to run- off of fertilizers and other nutrients from agricultural land, or from storm water and other sources. These excess nutrients combined with relatively high water temperatures experienced in Australia are the perfect breeding ground for algae. Algal blooms are frequently experienced. Algal blooms often degrade stored water in reservoirs, dams and other water impoundments.

Offensive smells, low dissolved oxygen and blue green algae || cyanobacteria | fish | smell

Some species of algae release toxins (cyanobacteria). All

blooms decrease dissolved oxygen in the water which in turn

effects fish within the impoundment. The visual amenity frequently

declines and there is often an offensive smell associated with the

blooms. Constant monitoring is essential and attacking the algae

before it turns into a major bloom is essential. Coptrol is ideal for

this task.

Recommended dose rate

If algae is a problem in your dam, reservoir or other big water impoundments follow this 5 step method to keep your waters clear and bright.

   1.  First identify the algae present. If you are not certain visit

      www.algae.info. This site enables you to identify all the common

       algae in Australia.

   2. Now calculate the volume of water to treat. Ignore depths below

       1 metre. We have a page which explains the methods used to

     determine the amount of water to treat. If you need assistance

      see How to calculate the volume of water to treat with Coptrol.



If you are not working in the metric system Note: 1 square metre is approx equal to 11 sq. feet.
1 million litres of water is approximately equivalent to:
220000 Imperial gallons
264000 U.S. Gallons.

   3. Next calculate the amount of Coptrol needed. An easy way

       to calculate is:

If the algae is fine and free floating use 2 mL of Coptrol per 1000 Litres (1 cubic metre) of water. That is equivalent to 2 Litres of Coptrol per 1000 square metres of surface area.

If the algae is long and stringy use 5 mL per 1000 litres of water (1 cubic metre) or 5 Litres per 1000 square metres of surface area.

   4. Dilute the required amount of Coptrol using a 1:10 or even a 1:20

       Coptrol water dilution.

   5. The best application method is by spraying. Apply on a sunlit

      wind free day when algae first appear. If this is impractical look

      at our general recommendations.


If you still need help call RCI at no cost to you. Contact RCI where our free call numbers are displayed. Or you can email RCI using this form

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