Fish habitat is important to consider when building a pond. One huge mistake that fishermen make is allowing submerged weed growth to take over their pond in an attempt to provide habitat for fish. This ultimately gives weeds a foothold, the fisherman gets busy and the pond care gets neglected. Boom! Weeds everywhere! Wife unhappy! Don’t fall into that trap.
Aside from being an eyesore, excessive weed growth can lead to decrease oxygen in the water column and allow feeder fish to hide, both of which limit the survival and growth of pond fish. The DNR does, however, have a standard where they assert 20% growth in a pond. Having 20% growth can be as simple as allowing a few small patches of weeds to grow. These patches serve as habitat/forage for aquatic life, help oxygenate the water, and maintain better water quality through taking in nutrients that would otherwise feed algae growth. The key to all of this is balance, and making sure that growth is not left uncontrolled. That being said, NEVER plant weeds in your pond on purpose!
After paying attention to all the other factors in constructing a pond, don’t let it all go down the drain by ignoring this aspect. Provide cover by installing old drain tiles, rocks, larger underwater logs, or other hollow pipe (PVC) type constructs laid all along the pond bottom. Some people anchor old Christmas trees at the bottom of the pond. By placing these structures in the pond, you will provide adequate habitat for fish to hide among and thrive. Remember, fish habitat should never include submerged weeds but should include structures at the bottom of the pond!
It is for this reason that we encourage our customers to sign up for a silver or gold plan as opposed to a bronze, which does not include weed treatment. Our Bronze plan is geared towards newer (first year) ponds that are newly dug and still need to mature.
Unsure about whether Our Pond Service is for you or not sure about what plan will suit your needs? Call us to speak to a licensed professional.
Contact Pond Champs with any additional questions or concerns.