Mud and algae in pool

[Texjag]

Just joining so posting this to be accepted. Will continue reading thru existing posts to find help. Just bought house in Nov 2011 with a 20 x 40 rectangular (with step section) in-ground vinyl liner pool. The deep end is like a square funnel about 8 feet deep (have diving board and slide). Pool has been closed about 4 to 5 years with a torn cover. Have been scooping out mud and algea since found black/green water when took cover off this month (June 2012), using screen net. Found good advice and pics on your site, so will keep at it. Located in NW Pennsylvania so hoping to be able to use pool before fall, or at least get it ready for next season. Bought small Walmart 3-way test kit which showed 7.4ph and clear on cholrine side. Figured on getting most of mud and algea out by hand before spending money on treatment and ruining filter and pump system.