Pond Scum & Maintenance Workshop

Organization: Hamilton County Conservation District

About these events:

​Workshop participants will learn how to tackle nutrient runoff that can cause algal blooms in farm and residential ponds, while also taking a deep dive into the world pond scum and algae. Participants will learn about algae that make up a healthy pond ecosystem, as well as types of algae that are capable of producing toxins that can harm pets, livestock and even humans!

The first two sessions will be virtual classroom-style learning sessions.

The third session will be an in-person Field Day, where participants can study algae samples collected from local ponds (including their own) under the microscope. The field day will also allow participants to see Best Management Practices (BMP’s) in action, while they speak with local experts about their own pond issues.

Field Days will take place on two different days and locations. For your convenience, you have the option to choose a Field Day in Northern Kentucky or Hamilton County.

At the time of registration, you will be asked to select your Field Day location.

Session #1

• August 15th 6:30-8 pm
• ​Zoom
• Welcome & Course Overview
• Pond Ecology 101
• Algae: the Good, the Bad and the Managed

Session #2

• ​August 17th 6:30-8pm
• Zoom
• BMP's for Controlling Nutrients
• Cost Share Opportunities for Farm Ponds
• Addressing Residential Pond Issues

Field Day in Northern Kentucky

• August 20th 9-11 am
• ID of water samples in microscopes
• Demonstration of BMP's
• Location: Camp Ernst Lake 7615 Camp Ernst Road Burlington, Kentucky 41005

Field Day in Hamilton County

• August 27th 9-11 am
• ID of water samples in microscopes
• Demonstration of BMP's
• Location: UC Center for Field Studies 11053 Oxford Road Harrison, Ohio 45030

Registration is free, however it is Required.

Registration closes on August 10th.

What to Bring During the Second Session

• Drink
• Clothes and shoes to go outside during field work
• Water sample from pond