Learn a few quick and easy steps to Winterize your Pond.
Take the following steps to winterize your pond
If you live in a cold climate, you should take steps to winterize your pond. When winterizing your pond take into account your fish population, plants, pumps, and other accessories (i.e. waterfalls, fountains, and aeration units). Properly Winterizing your Pond will provide enough oxygen and allow for C02 release to keep your fish population healthy all winter long.
Should you Drain your Pond? Consider these questions.
- How big is your pond and what is the water source?
- Will your pond freeze solid during the colder winter months?
- Does your pond support fish or other aquatic animals?
- What is the cost to refill the pond in the spring?
Generally, there is no reason to drain a pond. Snow and rain will just refill the pond over time and if you take the necessary steps to protect equipment such as pumps, fountains, and aeration units you will be fine. The farther south your pond is located there is even less of a need to drain your pond.
Remove dead foliage from the pond banks.
Remove dead trees and bushes from the banks of the pond. Trim back overhanging shrubbery to minimize dead leaves, and bird waste from entering the pond. As plant life dies and decomposes in a pond it will create and release toxic gases which can be very harmful to aquatic life.
Clean away any debris, vegetation build-up and muck on Fountain and Surface Aeration units.
After cleaning it is suggested to turn the units back on for continuous cleaning and water movement throughout the winter months. Be sure your unit’s pump is deep enough in a pond or on land that is a frost-free environment so that it will not freeze and break. If your pond consistently freezes over, it is best to remove the unit from the pond and properly store it over the winter.
If you need help with pond clean-up, and winterization call the professionals at Pond Lake Management.
