Biologists are giving a boost to Lake Poinsett’s fish populations by fertilizing the lake!

They’re adding phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium to create a “bloom” of phytoplankton—tiny organisms at the base of the food chain.

These phytoplankton feed zooplankton, which then feed fish and insects. Game fish like Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, bream, and crappie thrive as a result. Plus, the plankton bloom helps keep the growth of aquatic plants in check by reducing the amount of light that reaches the lake bottom.