I don't believe that feeding rings are meant to be a permanent addition to the BOW, rather they assist in feed training the fish in the beginning. Once my fish began to feed reliably, I removed my feeding ring.
I feed my ponds once a day, by hand. According to my records, my fish missed feed a total of three days last season. So far this year, no days missed. I feel that those few days without feed are more than offset by my ability to compensate daily for my fish's needs/wants. If they are aggressive and want more, I feed more. If they are sluggish, I cut back. A mechanical feeder just can't do that.
Naturally, the size of the BOW as well as individual preferences and needs will impact the decision of whether or not to purchase a feeder.
