How to Control Algae in Dugouts

Oftentimes, dugouts are thought of as a small lake or pond. Dugouts are used on farming grounds to feed livestock and for growing crops. No matter the use, the water quality in dugouts is important and needs to be monitored. However, maintaining good water quality is often made problematic by algae growth, which is something that needs to be taken care of immediately.

Lime (calcium hydroxide)
Thick gloves
Boots
Protective goggles
pH level testing kit
Lime applicator

Instructions

- 1
  Wait until spring, as water temperatures need to be above 59 degrees Fahrenheit for the lime to be most effective. Block any incoming water at this time as well.
- 2
  Put on your protective clothing along with your goggles. Hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) can be very dangerous and corrosive to your skin.
- 3
  Measure the number of gallons of water in your dugout as well as the pH level to determine the amount of lime to be used. For example, if you have a length of 160 feet and a width of 100 feet, including a depth of 14 feet, your dugout contains approximately 751,500 imperial gallons. Most pH testing kits are sold at garden centers in most stores. Use the chart on your bag of hydrated lime to see how much to use per gallon of water.
- 4
  Apply lime to your dugout using your applicator. Apply near the edges of your dugout around plants. Also, focus on the deepest part of the dugout.
- 5
  Monitor your dugout over the course of a week, as it might take some time. Once the water is clear you can unblock the incoming water.

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