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1. What is the odor coming from the pond?

Rotting organic matter, water turnover, or certain types of algae are typically the main sources of bad odor. Organic matter decays at the bottom of the pond when it is stagnant and poorly oxygenated and sulfur-dioxide is released as a by-product of the decomposition. When the water is disturbed by way of cool wind or heavy rainstorms, the odor comes to surface.

2. Why is the pond green?

The green you are seeing may be any of a variety of plants. Common plants which are naturally occurring and generally benign include duckweed and watermeal which is often mistaken for algae. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, can be harmful with prolonged or frequent exposure. Algae blooms are caused by heat and excessive amounts of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Some of the most common sources of nutrients include fertilizers, grass clippings, and animal waste. Cyanobacteria

3. Why are there so many geese?

The ideal habitat for Canadian geese is mowed Kentucky bluegrass contiguous with a body of water. A significant way to prevent geese from impending your pond is to stop mowing to the shoreline. This gives geese easy access in and out of the water and is a desirable habitat for them. There are a variety of methods for control geese but establishing a buffer of native plantings along the water’s edge is the most effective. This will not only deter geese but it will also provide water quality benefits. More information on geese can be found on the MN DNR website. MN DNR Geese