Unfortunately, pond owners are often living with the consequences of a previous owner’s pond design. Small shallow ponds that “kill” frequently may be better off managed as wetlands for wildlife rather than fishing. Managing these ponds for fishing by repetitive stocking is expensive and unproductive. In some cases, the likelihood of fish kills can be reduced by diligent snow removal or artificial aeration. The most practical method to increase oxygen production and prevent winterkill is snow removal. Snow accumulations of less than two inches usually melt soon after a storm passes and do not warrant removal. However, heavy snowfall accumulations that persist should be removed as soon as possible. Removal of at least 30 percent of the snow usually provides adequate light transmission. Pond owners should concentrate on removal in shoreline areas if only a portion of the pond is to be cleared.
Commercially available aeration and circulation systems can be used to prevent both winterkill and summerkill. Some systems actually transfer a significant amount of oxygen to the pond, whereas others circulate the water to permit oxygen exchange, prevent complete ice-over and reduce buildup of organic matter. There are many models of commercially available aerators and artificial circulators designed to fit most ponds. Some of the more common aerators and circulators on the market are aspirators, paddle wheels, compressed air injectors, fountain aerators, and wind-powered aerators.
