A Provincial Policy Shift
In the spring of 2024, Manitoba halted the use of chemical herbicides, specifically diquat-based products like Reward, in municipal stormwater retention ponds. This decision aligned provincial policy with federal guidelines that only permit herbicide use in fish-bearing waters when targeting aquatic invasive species. As a result, municipalities such as Winnipeg can no longer chemically manage aquatic vegetation in their stormwater basins.
With this change, chemical vegetation control has been replaced by mechanical harvesting in a limited number of sites, while the majority of ponds are left untreated. This regulatory pivot has significantly impacted how stormwater ponds are maintained, bringing new ecological challenges to the forefront.
Ecological Challenges: Muck, Algae, and Invasive Weeds
Stormwater retention ponds are designed to collect urban runoff and filter nutrients before the water returns to rivers, creeks, or lakes. While aquatic vegetation is a natural part of this filtration process, uncontrolled growth can cause:
- Thick surface coverage of duckweed, reducing light and oxygen levels Aggressive spread of aquatic weeds
- Frequent algal blooms, including toxic blue-green algae outbreaks Heavy buildup of organic muck accumulating along the pond bottom Poor water clarity with consistently murky appearance
- Strong, unpleasant odours from decaying organic material
As aquatic plants die and decompose, they create a thick, nutrient-rich layer of sludge known as muck. This muck:
- Releases nutrients back into the water, feeding new weed and algae growth
- Produces foul odours
- Reduces pond depth and capacity
- Makes mechanical harvesting more difficult
- Becomes a seedbed for more invasive species
With herbicides no longer an option, effective muck management has become the first and most critical step in restoring pond health and ecological balance.
Clean Water Pro’s Natural, Canadian-Compliant Remediation Program
Clean Water Pro offers a safe and effective alternative to herbicides with an all-natural pond remediation program. Designed specifically for Canadian stormwater basins, this four-step approach complies with both federal and provincial regulations and is safe for use in fish-bearing waters.
Step 1: Digest the Muck
The remediation process begins by targeting the sludge at the bottom. Muck Remover PLUS uses concentrated pellets of beneficial bacteria and enzymes to digest organic debris. As the muck breaks down, nutrient levels decrease, odours subside, and the pond bottom becomes more stable, making maintenance easier and reducing the conditions that fuel algae and weed overgrowth.
Step 2: Clarify the Water Column
Even after muck digestion begins, the water may remain cloudy with suspended organics. Pond Cleaner PLUS contains a high concentration of beneficial bacteria and enzymes delivered in dissolvable pouches. These microbes rapidly establish a healthy microbial balance, outcompeting algae for nutrients and restoring clarity to the water.
Step 3: Bind Free-Flowing Phosphorus
Phosphorus runoff from fertilizers and organic debris is one of the primary drivers of algae blooms. Clean Water Pro’s phosphate binder uses naturally occurring minerals to convert free-floating phosphorus into forms that algae cannot use. This also improves clarity by settling suspended particles and enhances the performance of beneficial bacteria. The product is safe for pets, wildlife, and aquatic ecosystems and does not alter the pond’s pH.
Step 4: Increase Oxygen with Fine-Bubble Aeration
To support microbial activity, oxygen is essential. Fine-bubble aeration systems deliver compressed air through bottom-diffuser discs, releasing thousands of microbubbles that rise slowly, circulating the water and improving oxygenation. This process:
- Enhances bacterial performance
- Prevents fish kills
- Reduces algae by disrupting surface conditions
- Eliminates odours
- Supports rapid organic breakdown
Because these systems operate without submerged electrical components, they are safe for swimmers, pets, and wildlife.
The Result: Balanced, Beautiful, Herbicide-Free Ponds
With herbicides off the table, Clean Water Pro’s natural remediation system provides a sustainable and regulation-compliant alternative. This four-part program helps communities:
- Reduce nutrient cycling
- Improve water clarity
- Suppress nuisance vegetation naturally
- Restore ecological balance
- Maintain safe and enjoyable water features for residents and wildlife
Ready to Restore Your Pond?
If you’re managing a stormwater retention pond and looking for a safe, effective solution that aligns with current environmental policies, Clean Water Pro is here to help. Our team will design a custom treatment plan tailored to your pond’s condition and nutrient load.
Contact us today to take the first step toward cleaner, healthier water, without the need for chemicals.