National Trust for Scotland addressing pond algae issues at Brodie Castle
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THE CUSTODIANS of a local tourist attraction are addressing an outbreak of algae at the site.
The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) has been trying to stay on top of the situation in Brodie Castle’s ponds, famed for their wildfowl and dragonflies, but recent lengthy spells of sunshine have made the problem worse.
NTS marketing assistant Jacky Brookes confirmed during high temperatures pond weed and algae are real issues for her gardening team.
She said: “It’s simply nature taking its course. As temperatures fall the problems will abate naturally but we understand why people find the ponds unsightly in their current condition. We prioritised the removal of algae last month to ensure that the sluices weren’t clogged and to avoid the water becoming deoxygenated. We are planning another effort using a specialised machine soon.”
Most ponds will have an algal problem at some time or another, but it thrives where pools have been created in a sunny position, with little planting to provide shade across the surface.
Causes include excess organic debris and fertiliser run-off.
