Mallard Ducks on Emerald-green Duckweed Pond (Sweetwater Wetlands, June 16, 2021) — Image by kenne
Duckweed, an emerald-green hydroponic plant, has covered most ponds at the wetlands this summer.
The plant, which grows on the water surface without soil, makes irregular warm-season appearances at
Sweetwater, which doubles as a wastewater treatment facility and lush wildlife habitat.
Duckweed is harmless and disappears naturally in the fall. It removes nitrates from the reclaimed water,
and it’s good for the ducks. It’s a plant that ducks eat, providing a lot of protein.
— kenne
