Blog Archives
A Tale of Two Harvesters
Growing up on Potter’s Lake in Wisconsin, summer days meant fishing, swimming, and watching aquatic weed harvesters at work. Decades later, it turns out two colleagues at Aquarius Systems shared that same childhood experience—though they had each watched different harvesters over the years.
The first machine, purchased in 1976, was the classic “Aquarius Blue,” while the lake upgraded to a stainless-steel harvester in 1985, which is still in operation today. A small world, connected by lakes and harvesters!
Read the full article on our website: A Tale of Two Harvesters
The Weeds at River Walk
At Bakersfield’s River Walk, an aquatic weed harvester works like an underwater lawn mower, cutting and collecting weeds before they reach the surface. The harvested plants are transported to shore, where they are removed and disposed of responsibly.
This mechanical approach reduces the need for chemicals, protecting groundwater and saving costs compared to traditional herbicide treatments. The harvester’s efficiency keeps the waterways safe and accessible for everyone.
Read the full article on our website: The Weeds at River Walk
A Success Story – Lake Minnewawa Weed Harvesting
In the 1970s, Lake Minnewawa was overrun with weeds, making boating and water quality a challenge. In response, local residents formed the Save Minnewawa Association and eventually purchased an Aquarius Systems weed harvester.
Operating several months each year, the harvester clears invasive vegetation, improves water clarity, and removes excess phosphorous — reducing algae growth and supporting a healthier ecosystem. The project is funded by memberships, donations, and volunteer work, not state funds, making it a true community effort.
Thanks to years of consistent harvesting, the lake has seen significant improvements in water quality and usability, proving the value of mechanical weed management over chemical alternatives.
Read the full article on our website: Lake Minnewawa Weed Harvesting Success Story
Milfoil — Beating back the invader
Along the Columbia River, milfoil, an invasive aquatic weed, can make boating and recreation difficult. Park maintenance crews use a milfoil harvester, which cuts and collects the plants, keeping waterways clear and safe for visitors.
Once harvested, the milfoil is taken to compost piles, where it naturally breaks down, providing an eco-friendly solution for managing invasive plants. This method helps maintain the river environment while ensuring parks remain accessible and enjoyable.
Think Twice When Fertilizing your Lawn This Fall
Everyone lives in a watershed, meaning what happens on your lawn can affect nearby lakes, rivers, and streams. As fall arrives and homeowners prepare to fertilize, it’s important to remember that phosphates—a common ingredient in lawn fertilizer—can lead to algae growth and poor water quality.
Practicing responsible lawn care helps protect waterways from pollution. The EPA offers helpful resources and videos on how to maintain a healthy lawn while reducing runoff and nutrient pollution.
Read the full article on our website: Think Twice When Fertilizing Your Lawn This Fall
What is an Aquatic Weed Harvester?
Aquatic Weed Harvesters provide an environmentally friendly way to manage nuisance vegetation in lakes, ponds, and waterways of all sizes. Acting like an underwater lawn mower, they cut and collect submerged, emergent, and floating plants to keep water clear and usable.
Each machine uses a forward conveyor and cutter bars to remove weeds, storing them on board before offloading at shore. Aquarius Systems offers a range of customizable models to meet specific lake and vegetation needs, helping restore balance to aquatic environments.
Read the full article on our website: What Is an Aquatic Weed Harvester?
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