Algaecide and super high Nitrates

[Koi4JT]

Hi Craig, you have a similar setup to my pond, which is comprised with a 10'x14' primary pond, a 8'x4' secondary pond and a 6'x2' x 4' deep bog filter system. I used to have the same water problems you had until I built my bog. Ever since then, which was about 14 years ago, the water quality in my two ponds has been crystal clear. Now, the bog does get a bit funky on top, whereby I have to clean out the algae and muck on top a couple of times a year, and I do a backwash about every three years. I also use floating Koi sticks which they devour twice daily so I don't have any issues with that. I also had to net the ponds to keep the dang Blue Heron's from attacking my ponds. Just FYI and good luck. John

 

[morewater]

UV lights are over-rated, but do an absolutely fantastic job of masking the underlying problem.

 

[mgmine]

UV lights are over-rated, but do an absolutely fantastic job of masking the underlying problem.

Yep they sure do. Clear water and happy fish in only a few days. What ever is happening in the background as you say is masked and life is good. Once the pond cycles you can turn it off if you want. If the water turns green again and is ruining the looks of the pond simply turn it back on. Why anyone would put up with a green pond for even a few days let alone a full season is beyond me.

 

[MitchM]

A reasonable amount of planktonic algae provides a place for fish to retreat when frightened, prevents the fish from getting sunburned and is the beginning of the pond food chain.
It's a good thing - within reason.