Algae-killing chemical safe for ducks?

[Gwokakotta]

We just bought this Cutrine Plus stuff to kill the rapidly-growing algae in our pond, but I was wondering if it could be harmful to our ducks, especially since they're out on pond all day drinking and eating from the water (they might even eat the algae, but I'm not sure.) Has anyone else used this stuff?

 

[Amiga]

Haven't used it, but I would say either don't use it or keep the ducks completely off the pond if you do. Here is the MSDS

http://www.wplawinc.com/LiteratureRetrieve.aspx?ID=73134

It has copper in it, is harmful to skin and eyes.

 

[Gwokakotta]

Thanks for the link. I was just reading this info:

http://www.aquaticbiologists.com/aquatic-chemicals/algaecides/cutrine-plus-liquid

The chart on the right of the page says the stuff has no water restrictions for animal drinking. Anyone have an opinion on that?

Of course, I'm not gonna let them on the pond if it's a potentially harmful chemical, but if I can help it I'd rather not keep them cooped up and eating extra food when they could be out foraging and enjoying the water.

 

[Amiga]

Tough choice - I lean toward caution, myself - the copper was a red flag to me due to metals' reputation for making waterfowl ill. It may be benign, I have no experience with it.

Speceider would be one to ask. Perhaps you can PM him.

 

[bjindiana]

Curious what you found out? Our pond is full of floating moss algae and we normally treat with copper sulfate but are concerned about it's use now that we have a pair of swans. Thanks.

 

[subhanalah]

I prefer not to use copper for algae problems.
Green water indicates an imbalanced system and dumping chemicals/poisons into it doesn't help, especially in the long run.

Can you shade your pond? Or make a filter for it so it can have a colony of intriguing bacteria to outcome the the algae, or add duck weed or other nutrient greedy aquatic plants like hornwort.