01

Why do I have muck in the first place?

Muck is a layer of organic sediment that accumulates at the bottom of water bodies when plant and animal matter doesn't completely decompose. This occurs when there's an excess of organic material, such as from plant overgrowth, algae blooms, and the accumulation of dead organisms. Additionally, inadequate bacterial activity due to unfavorable environmental conditions can hinder decomposition. External inputs, such as runoff from surrounding areas carrying debris like grass clippings, leaves, and twigs, also contribute significantly to muck buildup. Muck is rich in nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which further fuels its growth. This accumulation can have detrimental effects on water quality and aquatic life.

03

How fast are the results & how much muck will go away?

The speed of muck reduction depends on the amount of organic matter present. Lakes with more organic matter will initially show faster results.

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Typical results range from 2-6 inches per season or 2-3 inches per month.

Customers can expect a 40-70% reduction in muck over the summer.

Wave action accelerates the process.

The pellets work best on decomposing organic matter (gooey muck) and are effective on dead leaves, weeds, and animal waste. They have limited impact on rock, sand, gravel, and sticks, and may work more slowly on materials high in lignin (like oak leaves).

05

Are these pellets/methods proven to work?

The pellets have been in use by commercial applicators for 10 years. Within the past few years it has become available to the individual homeowner.

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There is no easy way to gauge how much muck will degrade. You can have a lab run a TVSS (total volatile suspended solids test), which will tell you what percent of your much is organic and biodegradable.

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The pellets contain a broad spectrum of organisms, not one specific enzyme. The broader the spectrum, the better the results.

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It will help gradually reduce some aquatic weeds, but not cattails or lilies.

Early in treatment, as bacterial activity increases muck can get fluffier and less dense. This is temporary. To best judge progress, measure your muck depth before you start and again later in the fall when temperature cools off (reports included in our level 3 service level)

02

How do muck pellets work?

Our pellets are a blend of natural beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and vitamins designed to enhance biological activity in your lake or pond bottom. When the pellets sink into the muck, they stimulate the growth of bacteria that consume organic sediment, leading to a localized reduction in muck levels.

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These beneficial bacteria and enzymes remain concentrated where they sink, effectively breaking down the surrounding muck. This targeted treatment focuses solely on your beach, shoreline, or pond, with no impact on neighboring areas or the entire lake.

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The bacteria are beneficial to the lake's microbial environment and pose no harm to aquatic plants, fish, waterfowl, or humans

04

Can I order and apply the pellets myself?

Yes, absolutely! You can purchase the pellets directly from us. We are happy to provide guidance on the appropriate dosage, application methods, and best practices for optimal results.

06

What else can I do to reduce muck at my lakefront?

Here are a few simple things you can do to help reduce muck:

1. Keep the water moving: Use an aerator (or water activities) to help keep the water moving. This adds more oxygen to the water, which helps break down the muck naturally.

2. Clean up often: In the spring and fall, clean up any dead plants, leaves, or other debris that has fallen into the water.

3. Remove weeds properly: When you remove weeds, don't forget the roots! This prevents them from decaying in the water and adding to the muck.

4. Don't let weeds pile up: If you see any weeds floating on the water, remove them right away before they start to rot.

5. Avoid using chemicals: Don't use chemicals to kill weeds. These chemicals can sink to the bottom and add to the muck problem.