Fishhead, I think that a 100% winter kill with your pond configuration is improbable. You have water flow-through all winter. Unless there was something that came in from upstream in terms of contamination, I just don't see how a 100% kill would be possible.

Having said that, I think open water is always a good thing during the winter. We had 26 inches of ice this winter and always kept an area of open water with our circulator running part time.

Keep us informed on your situation and think positive thoughts!


Life is Good on Bremer Pond!