pond algae followup

Question
Jonathan,
You may recall my inquiry in regard to algae issue with artificial pond in indoor eagle habitat. I took two individual samples at least ten days ago in paper cups, one of the tap water and one of the pond water. Since then there has been no visible change in either sample.  You did suggest that I might obtain an inexpensive test kit that might tell me the nutrient content of the water. Can you suggest a particular kit and perhaps an online source for purchasing?  Also if I was to obtain a phosphate remover product to add to the water, wouldn't I want to add it to a freshly cleaned and refilled pond, not to one where algae is already present?  Also, can you suggest how I might measure the water volume of the pond if I have no idea how many gallons it holds.  Thanks.  

Answer
I'd say you can safely eliminate your tap water as the cause.  Your test shows that perhaps Carbon Dioxide is the culprit here, as that is the only item that would not make the transfer from the pond to the paper cup.  You can test for CO2 by measuring the pH and alkalinity.  Then refer to a pH/alkalinity chart.  If it seems too high, you need to try a larger pump to get the water turbidity higher.

The tests you may want to get are pH, Ammonia, Nitrate, and Phosphate.  You also may want to pay the little bit extra for a KH (alkalinity) test.

There are several brands available.  I have used some of the best test reagents on the market, and they are overpriced, time-consuming, but hauntingly precise.  My favorite 'entry level' test kits are API brand.  They offer several packages, but none that have these exact tests.  You will either have to order a la carte or get a freshwater master kit and add on the remaining ones you need.

I don't really know the layout of Alaska, but you will probably find these at any pet store, and maybe even some sort of super-center, like a walmart or something.  Otherwise, hop online and find an online retailer that ships from as close as possible.  If you have no success, I recommend thatpetplace.com

It is the only online aquarium supplies retailer I have ever used, although they don't carry the API brand.  Best of luck.