The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is scheduled to host a pond management workshop next month in Johnson County.

According to MDC, the event is scheduled to be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 9, at Powell Gardens, west of Warrensburg off U.S. Highway 50.

MDC biologists will provide information on managing fish populations and aquatic vegetation in ponds, including nuisance plants. Pond owners can ask questions and visit with biologists. Participants are also asked to bring plant samples or photographs of any plants causing problems in their pond. Biologists can identify the plants and recommend options for control. Participants will also learn about aquatic plant identification.

Some native aquatic plants are beneficial. But ponds can also become infested with nonnative, invasive plant species that can harm fishing and aesthetics. Solutions are available.

The MDC workshop is free. But Powell Gardens does have a $10 admission fee. Participants are encouraged to tour the garden’s rich floral displays and scenic ponds after the workshop.

Registration is required. To register, visit the Powell Gardens webpage at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z9U.

Photo: MDC’s pond management workshop on Sept. 9 at Powell Gardens can help property owners learn how to manage fish populations and aquatic plants to meet their goals. (Photo by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation)