basslover,
I like your idea about splitting the duties for each pond.
Does anyone on PB with a multi-use pond know how much the "humans in the pond activities" affect the LMB - especially if it is mostly confined to one corner of the pond?
I assume keeping toxic substances out would be the most important consideration. Does SPF 50 sunscreen count as a toxic substance? (I have a lot of gingers on one side of the family.)
Thanks - Rod
Rod -
A 1 acre multi-use pond here. Pretty much rectangle shape. Fixed dock near a man-made beach area I made. Kids swim, dive, snorkel, float, yak and play in the pond. Water clarity is clear, like tap water, currently 10 feet clarity.
The bluegills enjoy pecking at the kids, the kids enjoy this less than the gills.
The largemouth bass are indifferent. They swim by, sometimes swim away, but never approach. They have grown from 4-6" last May 2014 to 10-18" today.
Sunscreens do wash off into the water, and certain chemicals within sunscreens do have a negative impact on the ecosystem within the water:
http://www.rawelementsusa.com/understanding-sun-protection/environmental-impact/http://www.stormh2o.com/SW/Articles/Sunscreen_Ingredients_May_Harm_Marine_Life_26884.aspxhttp://www.stormh2o.com/SW/Blogs/Toxic_Sunscreens__2066.aspxhttp://www.hkaffs.org/en/images/GAP3.pdf
