POND life in Cooper Park is being dealt with in an environmentally friendly manner.
Unsightly green algae has been particularly prevalent on the boating lake this year because of the weather conditions.
Moray Council is controlling the organisms by anchoring bales of barley straw in the water to inhibit growth.
There are no suitable chemical alternatives for dealing with the algae, which can pose a health risk to people and animals.
Research has shown that chemicals released into the water when the straw starts to decompose can inhibit algae growth.
The pond, which also supports a variety of wildlife, is used for boating and the algae can be a problem when it clings to oars and paddles.
It can also clog sluices and water outlets.
A council spokesman said: "Passersby may well be wondering what purpose these bales are serving but they are a very cheap, effective and environmentally acceptable way of controlling the algae.
"Although the bales are visible at the moment, they will slowly sink below the surface as the straw begins to decompose."
