When we moved in September the pond was covered with algae and weeds. Countless hours were spent removing the algae and weeding around the pond. We read articles, books, and visited a local garden and farm specialist to find out as much as we could about how to save the pond.
We enjoyed fishing in the pond this fall and catching frogs. To our sadness this weekend as the ice began to melt and the edges free to splash on shore, we saw floating fish. Fish shouldn't float, belly up with white eyes.
Sarah was the lucky one to find our fish friends in their demise. If you know my Sarah, you know this lacked no drama....drama is her middle name. It's one of the reasons we love her, never a dull moment.
After removing at least 100 dead fish we were thrilled to find tad poles who survived the winter.....and one snapper turtle....(there is a story behind this little guy and we should have caught him in a bucket instead of in my camera lens)
After much research and council we learned we should not have allowed the pond to freeze over. A heater and aerator is needed for the winter months. Without it there is too much nitrogen and no where for the nitrogen to escape to. Trying to see the positive, we now have the opportunity to dredge the pond and remove algae and sludge. A fresh start....we hope.
Any pond experts out there with advice?
3 comments:
Sorry I can't help, but I do love the pictures you took of your turtle...hope you get everything back like it needs to be.
Molly
Oh my, Poor Sarah.
Oh Wendy,
It is as sad now as when you told me mid week. I'm thankful you figured out waht caused the issue, but poor Sarah.
Dee Dee
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