Hehe I didnt want to give it away, but there was another post where someone did this in thier 5 or 10 I think. It was pretty neat. I used to keep clippings from Some houseplants in my filter to start the roots.
I think it would be easy enough to just wipe the sides of that tank off to keep it clear. Some bettas will kill snails, but you could give one a try. Not sure what type would be best though, I've only ever had one snail that came in with some plants...havn't seen it in quite some time, so not even sure I still have one...lol...
Snails will eat algae but aren't very quick or consistant IME. Wiping the sides occasionaly is best. I do have snails in my betta tank, pond and rams horn.