Weedoo Workboats

Water Weed Removal: Mechanical Harvesting Versus Chemical Herbicides

Mechanical harvesting versus chemical herbicides is a significant debate when addressing water weed problems. When faced with an infestation of water weeds, it can be overwhelming and frustrating, leading many to opt for chemical herbicides as a quick solution. However, two crucial factors should be considered before deciding between mechanical harvesting and chemical herbicides: the biomass factor and the safety factor. Please make an informed decision!

The Biomass Factor in the Mechanical Harvesting Versus Chemical Herbicides Debate

Weedooboats - Mechanical Harvesting Versus Chemical Herbicides
One of the problems with chemical herbicides is the additional issues that can arise after their use, particularly biomass accumulation. Spraying chemical herbicides may kill the plants, but they remain in the water as dead biomass. The rapid decay of this plant matter leads to a spike in nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, making the water vulnerable to invasions by other plants, both native (like Starry Stonewort, Duckweed, and Cattails) and non-native species (like Water Chestnut). Additionally, decaying plant matter depletes oxygen levels in the water, which can cause the die-off of fish and other aquatic animals. Chemical treatments do not remove biomass, creating a vicious cycle of nutrient spikes and further weed invasions. Mechanical harvesting, however, involves physically removing the plants from the water, effectively eliminating the biomass and preventing these issues.

The Safety Factor in the Mechanical Harvesting Versus Chemical Herbicides Debate

Safety is another crucial consideration when choosing between chemical herbicides and mechanical harvesting. Just because a chemical is legally permitted doesn’t mean it’s safe or advisable to use. Typically, you would need to hire a chemical contractor, which can be costly and raises concerns about proper application and dosage. Mechanical harvesting, on the other hand, is straightforward and allows for easy monitoring of progress. Many chemical herbicides are toxic to fish and other aquatic life, further harming the ecosystem. Treated water often must be restricted from use for drinking, watering animals, swimming, fish farming, or irrigation until deemed safe, which can take anywhere from 10 to 90 days, depending on the chemical used. Furthermore, chemical treatments do not remove biomass, leading to elevated nutrient levels and recurring weed problems.
Harvesting Versus Chemical Herbicides Debate

Weedo Work Boats Win the Mechanical Harvesting Versus Chemical Herbicides Debate

Given the risks associated with chemical herbicides and their potential to exacerbate weed problems due to biomass accumulation, mechanical harvesting is a more sensible solution. Weedoo Workboats provide effective mechanical harvesting tools to address water weed problems..
Ready to tackle those wily water weeds without chemicals? Contact Weedoo today!