Do you worry that raising the water level for the Winter might cause an O2 drop due to microbial action during plant decay? I am raising my second pond in stages each spring to avoid this potential problem.
No, never had any issues. But remember, my management strategy for the HBG pond is one of "the only good pond plant, is a dead pond plant". Vegetation is a no-no where trophy BG are concerned In My opinion. And, I run the aerator when ice/ snow conditions warrant. I'm actually considering stopping aeration altogether, but that's another story.
