Thanks for the additional information. I was planning to contact someone with the NC Dept of Natural Resources/Pond Management, or County, to discuss stocking and the rotenone question. I am draining it now, planning to start with new stock after sediment/muck is removed, and trees are thinned out and banks repaired.

The pond surface has been covered for many years in algae and shows very few signs of life, just a few small credit card size white perch, and draining is almost complete, we have siphoned down to the last foot of depth. I don't know if rotenone (vs other methods)would be needed for such a small area about 1 foot deep. I haven't observed any movement at all in that last bit of water which covers an area about the size of a swimming pool...but all tips on this question are appreciated.

I think the water analysis is a very good idea and could impact the decision on leaving vs taking out some of the larger cedars that are on the banks.

I am in Yadkin County, with is in the Northwestern region of NC, so it will be good to know if there are others in the area who can share similar experiences. Thanks again for your replies.