When you assemble your LakeMat Pro or MuckMat Pro you’ll see several small half-moon-shaped slices arranged geometrically across the fabric. These are gas-release ports that allow gases to escape from under your mat.

Yes, the holes in your mat are suppose to be there

Where the gas comes from

When weeds decompose they release nitrogen, oxygen and Co2 from dead cells. Methane is released from aerobic bacteria digesting the plant matter, (yes, methane is essentially bacteria flatulence).

Below the lakebed, (under the soil) organic material is digested by anaerobic bacteria, producing hydrogen sulfide (it smells like rotten eggs). 

Normally, these gases rise to the surface and dissipate in the atmosphere — unless they get trapped under something.

Your mat’s fabric is gas-permeable, but it can get clogged with decaying plant matter and soil particles for a while. You can’t see it because it under the mat.

The gas-release ports are small, but big enough to not get clogged, gases migrate toward these ports and ultimately exit through them.

If you have a LakeMat, you’ll use the ports in the center of the fabric to attach plastic stakes. If you have a MuckMat, you’ll use the ports in the center of the fabric to fasten the geogrid to the fabric