Though we don't spend long hours enjoying the pond and waterfall during winter months, there are times when the beauty is stunning. Temperature changes bring about a display of ever-changing ice sculpture along the stream and waterfall.

To keep the pond ecosystem in good shape, the water flowing, and the fish healthy requires a few simple but important maintenance chores. As the pond freezes over, the ice buildup reduces the amount of water available, so manually adding water from a hose is necessary; you'll need to draw the water from an inside, or frost-free, valve, and be sure to drain the hose afterwards. In the hard freezes early this winter, I've had to add water to the pond twice.

It's important to keep the area in front of the skimmer clear of ice so water flows freely to the pump. At temperatures from freezing down to the teens, a small bubbler pump is used to prevent ice buildup. Extended periods of temperatures in the teens and lower will require a small pond heater in addition to the bubbler.

The heater draws 1250 watts - if you're just planning your system, be sure that the circuit to the pond can handle your main pump, bubbler pump, heater and possibly outdoor lighting also.

If the ice builds up before you've had a chance to take preventative measures (don't feel alone, it happens to me every year), do NOT bang through the ice with a heavy tool - this can seriously harm your fish. Find an edge to pry up and break the ice.

Keeping the ice clear from the front of the skimmer serves another important function. As organic matter in the pond breaks down, it gives off gases that can be toxic to fish if not released to the atmosphere. Keeping this area open keeps the water flowing and the fish healthy.

Though these chores are not difficult, they do take some time and advance planning. Once you get your workflow defined and tools in place, it's really very easy - just be sure to bundle up before you go outside!

To see a few photos of our pond in winter, go to: http://clearwaterlandscapes.com/pondphotos3.htm

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