AlHefner, welcome to the site. You will get tons of info if ya ask enough ?s.
I'm no big brain but as to your fun pond, the more shallow area ya have the more weed infestation you're gonna get. Also with the weather you have ya should for sure plan on aeration.
My pond is very small(1/4acre) and my slope is 3-1. Today I spent about an hr float/swimming around it gathering up big balls of Chara with my feet. I also have a persistent Curlyleaf Pondweed problem. I don't like ta use chemicals, figured since I had ta give em up my fish shouldn't have em either.
Keep us updated and ask away, brighter guys than me will give ya good advice.
