back yard pond

Question
i am a professional photographer to enhance some of my photographs, i had a little pond dug in the back of our place.  i have had it about 8 years.  it has some sort or green stuff growing in it.  it looks kind-of like fern leaves under water.  it is so thick you can't see the water.  i have some catfish in it and some brim.  i need it cleaned out.  i like the fish, but i dont like the stuff growing in it.  can you tell me how to clean it out, without killing the fish?

Answer
Hi Carolyn,
Thanx for your question.  You can buy the small barley bales at nurseries that have pond supplies.  This will help cut back the algae.  Floating plants like water hyacinth and water lettuce also help.  I do not recommend algacides although many people use them.  I don't think these products are earth friendly.  Ihope this helps.
Tom