Controlling Weeds in Ponds by Mario Villarino
May 2, 2024 – Controlling weeds in ponds is essential for maintaining water quality, preserving aquatic habitats, and ensuring recreational usability. Weeds can quickly overrun a pond, leading to decreased oxygen levels, restricted water flow, and an unappealing appearance. Effective weed control involves a combination of preventative measures and targeted management strategies tailored to the specific characteristics of the pond and the types of weeds present. In this guide, we’ll explore various methods for pond weed control, including mechanical, biological, chemical, and cultural approaches.
Mechanical Weed Control:-Hand Pulling: For small-scale weed infestations, hand pulling can be effective. This method involves manually removing weeds by hand or using tools like rakes or weed pullers. It’s labor-intensive but environmentally friendly and suitable for targeting specific problem areas. 2. Cutting and Harvesting: Cutting and harvesting weeds can help reduce their biomass and prevent them from spreading. Tools such as weed cutters, trimmers, or aquatic weed harvesters can be used to cut and remove weeds from the pond. Regular maintenance is required to prevent regrowth. 3. Dredging: Dredging involves removing accumulated sediments along with weeds from the bottom of the pond. This method can be effective for large-scale weed control and sediment removal but may be expensive and disruptive to aquatic ecosystems.
Biological Weed Control-Biological Control Agents: Introducing natural predators or herbivores that feed on aquatic weeds can help control their growth. For example, grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) are commonly used to consume submerged weeds like hydrilla and pondweed. However, careful consideration should be given to potential impacts on native vegetation and ecosystems before using biological control agents. 2. Microbial Herbicides: Microbial herbicides contain naturally occurring bacteria or fungi that target specific weed species. These products can be effective for controlling weeds without harming other aquatic organisms. Examples include herbicides containing strains of bacteria like Bacillus thuringiensis or fungi like Myrothecium verrucaria.
Chemical Weed Control- Herbicides: Herbicides are chemical substances specifically designed to control weed growth. They can be classified based on their mode of action, such as contact herbicides (kill only the parts of the plant they directly contact) or systemic herbicides (translocated throughout the plant, killing it entirely). Commonly used aquatic herbicides include glyphosate, diquat, and 2,4-D. It’s important to carefully follow label instructions and regulations when using herbicides to minimize environmental impacts and ensure safety.
Cultural Weed Control-Vegetation Management: Proper vegetation management around the pond can help prevent nutrient runoff and reduce the influx of organic matter, which can fuel weed growth. Maintaining a buffer zone of native vegetation, installing erosion control measures, and minimizing fertilizer use in surrounding areas can all contribute to weed control efforts. 2. Aeration: Aeration systems can improve water circulation and oxygen levels in the pond, which can help inhibit weed growth and promote the growth of desirable aquatic plants. Aerators come in various forms, including diffused aeration systems, surface aerators, and fountains.
Integrated Weed Management (IWM) combines multiple control methods to achieve long-term weed control while minimizing environmental impacts. By integrating mechanical, biological, chemical, and cultural approaches, IWM aims to target weeds at various life stages and reduce reliance on any single control method. Regular monitoring of weed populations and environmental conditions is essential for implementing effective IWM strategies. Controlling weeds in ponds requires a comprehensive approach that considers the specific characteristics of the pond, the types of weeds present, and environmental considerations. Mechanical methods such as hand pulling, cutting, and dredging can be effective for targeted weed removal. Biological control agents and microbial herbicides offer environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical herbicides, while cultural practices like vegetation management and aeration can help prevent weed growth. Integrated Weed Management (IWM) combines multiple control methods to achieve long-term weed control while minimizing environmental impacts. By implementing appropriate weed control strategies, pond owners can maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems and enjoy their ponds for recreational purposes. For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Hopkins County Spring Cleanup May 3rd & 4th
May 2, 2024 – Hopkins County Spring Cleanup is May 3rd from 7 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. and on May 4th from 7A.M. until noon. Hopkins County residents may bring larger household items (not commercial) to their county precinct barn to dispose of them properly.
All county precinct barns will be open for the clean up, all trash will be accepted, however no toxic or hazardous materials will be accepted. That means no shingles, no chemicals, no household hazardous wastes, no pesticides, no paint and no appliances containing Freon.
Commissioners plan to have some staff available to assist people when they arrive, but noted those bringing larger items to discard should be prepared to help off load them.
Tires will be accepted this year, however additional charges will be required to be paid upon delivery.
The four county precinct bars will serve as collection sites for the Hopkins County Clean Up Days. The barns can be found at the following locations:
- Precinct 1 Barn – 5516 State Highway 19 south, Sulphur Springs; contact: Commissioner Mickey Barker at 903-485-2040.
- Precinct 2 Barn – 12080 State Highway 11 east, Como; Contact: Commissioner Greg Anglin at 903-488-3514.
- Precinct 3 Barn – 583 County Road 3564, Dike; Contact: Commissioner Wade Bartley at 903-945 2178.
- Precinct 4 Barn – FM 2653, Cumby, 1.7 mile south of State Highway 11 west; Contact: Commissioner Joe Price at 903-582-8840.
Additionally, Sulphur Springs Livestock Auctions will be also be a drop-off site. However, they will only be accepting tires, no other trash or waste items are to be brought to the Sale Barn. Tires drop-offs will be charged a fee for transportation.
Sulphur Springs Livestock Auctions is located at: 1910 S Broadway St
The Good Book Nutrition Nook
May 1, 2024 – Lisa Mansfield Hill proprietress of the new faith based nutrition and wellness store in Sulphur Springs, dropped by the KSST studios this week for a brief interview. Her shop, inside the Good News Christian Bookstore on 1181 Broadway, is a labor love and mirrors her own lifestyle.
Lisa previously worked at a similar store in Sulphur Springs. Her 15 years working with Donna Korth, who Lisa identifies as a pioneer, inspired Lisa to continue providing natural products and education to the area.
“Donna passed me the torch, and I am proud to continue that legacy” said Hill.
Good Book Nutrition Nook has been in business for about 6 weeks, and during that short time Hill has already been able to expands the range of products offered.
Hill recently attended a trade show and education event, and that will provided new opportunities for her customers. “There will be a limited supply of complementary products that can be taken home and used.” said Hill.
Hill also emphasizes that her faith based philosophy of life and health is completely compatible with other medical advice. She strives to work with you and your physician to find a total solution.
Hill wants to thank our Lord and Savior and the Good News Christian Book Store for providing her the space inside their store. “The Jordans have been wonderful.” she added.
You can contact Lisa directly at 903 243 9663, or by email at [email protected].
Cumby 2024 FFA Auction and Dinner to be Held May 4th
April 30, 2024 – The auction of the Cumby FFA is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024. It will be held at 6pm. Cumby FFA Members will be selling various items including, hay rings, fire pits, porch swings, cornhole boards, as well as many outdoor and indoor items. Dinner is also provided. If you have any concerns or questions please reach out, a preferred phone number would be (214)-725-1032.
Dinner Bell for May 1st, 2024
The Ladies Golf Association of the Sulphur Springs Country Club has existed as long as women played golf on the course! In 1975 the present day golf association was organized with golf rounds of a competitive nature being played the last Wednesday of the month followed by lunch. Tallying scores (low score wins) and remembrances of the day’s rounds make the luncheon the ladies share a memorable event.
The golfers take special interest in the Sulphur Springs Girls’ Golf Team and purchase necessary supplies that are beyond the school budget. A word of encouragement when seeing a team member adds to their support!!!
The Dinner Bell Feeding Ministry appreciates the partnership of the Ladies Golf Association of the Sulphur Springs Country Club.
GRAB and GO with a meal from the distribution area under the covered driveway (porte cochere) on the Northeast corner of the First United Methodist Church campus starting around 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
MENU
Chicken Pot Pie
Bacon Infused Green Beans
Garden Salad
Buttered French Bread Slices
Cherry Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF BY FOLLOWING SAFE HEALTH PRACTICES AS FLU AND COVID ARE STILL IN OUR MIDST! WEAR MASKS WHERE REQUIRED! WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN! GET INOCULATED AND BOOSTED!
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH!!!
AgriLife Extension Agent Lisa Sprague Visited Again on A Second Cup of Coffee
On this episode of A Second Cup of Coffee with John Mark Dempsey, John Mark sat down again with Texas A&M AgriLife Hopkins County Family and Community Health Extension Agent Lisa Sprague. The two discuss 4H, the “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes” program, and more. Give it a view and gain new insight into living healthier.
The Next Lady Cats Area Playoff Softball Game is Friday, May 3rd, in Commerce
April 29, 2024 – The Sulphur Springs High School Lady Cats meet Quinlan Ford in Commerce, Texas, on Friday, May 3rd, 2024, in an area Playoff game. Game is scheduled to start at 5:00pm. KSST, 1230am, will carry the game, live. We will also video the game for playback at a later date and time. So, if you can’t come on out to the ball park in Commerce, Texas, and cheer on your hometown Lady Cats, then tune in to KSST and catch the action, live, with our broadcast team, John Mark Dempsey and Tony Flippin! Below is the Lady Cats second game against Brownsboro in Athens, Texas.
Choral Society to Present Next Concert May 4th and 5th
April 29, 2024 – The North East Texas Choral Society will present their next concert, “I Saw The Light”, Saturday, May 4th, 2024, beginning at 7:00pm, and Sunday, May 5th, 2024, beginning at 2:00pm. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children age 6 thru 12, and free for kids younger than 6. The performances will be held at the Sulphur Springs High School Auditorium, 1200 Houston Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas. You can purchase tickets online at singerscount.org, or from Alliance Bank, CNB, or Guaranty Bank and Trust.
Joining the North East Texas Choral Society for one of their concerts is a one of a kind expierence. They sum it up perfectly with the following attitude…
“Attending a live performance of any kind is a unique experience in and of itself. When you visit a NETCS concert, your gift is hearing rich, quality choral arrangements presented by 100 voices in an artistically designed manner that allows for an exchange with the audience. This interaction of performance and reception gives life to music in a way no recording can. Expect to lose your breath with the melody. Prepare to connect with the music. Watch for surprises! Following concert, we often hear from first-time audience members, ‘I’ll never miss another show.’ We think you will agree.”
Come see for yourself how true this expression is. Join the North East Texas Choral Society for this one of a kind concert experience May 4th and 5th at the Sulphur Springs High School Auditorium!
Come And Get It Auction This Weekend
April 29, 2024 – The Come And Get It Auction Company of Sulphur Springs is holding their first ever auction this weekend.
Doors open at 5 for preview and auction starts at 6PM May 4th, 2024. You can view a sample of the items up for grabs on their Facebook page.
- Funiture
- Collectables
- Wall hangings and framed posters
- and more
Just head south of Sulphur Springs to 4163 Highway 19.
PJC Reminds Supporters That Tuesday is East Texas Giving Day
April 29, 2024 – PJC joins East Texas Giving Day to support student success
Paris Junior College is proud to announce its participation in East Texas Giving Day on April 30, 2024, joining over 195 nonprofit organizations across north and east Texas in a collective effort to raise critical funds for the local community.
East Texas Giving Day is an 18-hour online event that unites the region in support of local needs, providing an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and organizations to come together and make a difference in the lives of others.
Dr. Jerry King, Interim President of Paris Junior College, expressed his enthusiasm for the event.
“East Texas Giving Day is a wonderful opportunity for our community to rally together and support the educational aspirations of our students,” said Dr. King. “Every donation, no matter the size, has a meaningful impact on their journey to success.”
From 6:00 a.m. to midnight on April 30, PJC alumni, former students, friends, and supporters are encouraged to visit www.easttexasgivingday.org/pjc to make a contribution directly benefiting PJC students. Gifts can be made securely online using any internet-enabled device, or by mailing a check to Baleigh McCoin, PJC East Texas Giving Day, 2400 Clarksville Street, Paris, TX 75460-6258.
“This is always such an exciting day for our students, faculty, staff, and the entire community,” said Baleigh McCoin, Director of Advancement at PJC. “The support we receive on Giving Day demonstrates the incredible generosity and commitment of our PJC family.”
Gifts made during East Texas Giving Day are tax-deductible, and supporters are encouraged to spread the word through social media channels, sharing messages and forwarding emails to help raise awareness for the campaign.
For more information on how to donate or get involved, please contact Baleigh McCoin at 903-782-0276 or [email protected].
