Lagoon Grass and Algae Control

 

2023 NOTICE OF CHEMICAL APPLICATION
LAGOON GRASS & ALGAE CONTROL


During the summer, the BLPOA conducts a campaign to control widgeon grass, wire weed and algae in the lagoon. This annual notice is to inform residents that BLPOA intends to apply certain aquatic herbicides, as needed, to supplement mechanical removal of these nuisance species. Aquatic herbicides are typically applied around the perimeter of the lagoon from the maintenance barge, and based on past years, are generally expected to be applied once each month between approximately April and October. You may observe BLPOA employees or licensed applicators wearing protective clothing and respirators while working with some chemicals, in accordance with California regulations.

  • Pond Dye, a blue dye from Cygnet. Applications of Pond Dye place no restrictions on water use after treatment.
  • Tribune, an aquatic herbicide with Diquat dibromide as the active ingredient, is applied for the control of widgeon grass and algae. Applications of Tribune place no restrictions on water use.

There are no restrictions on water use following application of the above-mentioned chemicals. Nevertheless, in an abundance of caution, the BLPOA recommends swimmers and boaters refrain from water contact activities during and shortly after application. Following the application of the above chemicals, you may notice a black residue of the dead algae and widgeon grass floating on the lagoon. While unsightly, there are no restrictions to the use of the lagoon while this condition exists.

If you have any questions about the use of chemicals in the lagoon, please contact the Lagoon Maintenance and Facilities Coordinator, Peter Ruppert, at (415) 435-0285 or email info@belvederelagoon.org.

 

Lagoon Safety Tip:

Manually powered craft have the right-of-way over sailboats and sailboards. Sailboats should follow the basic "starboard over port tack" and "leeward over windward" right-of-way rules when encountering another sailboat or sailboard.