Sorry to hear about your break-ins Dave, knock on wood but we have not had any problems with that in more than 30 years although a neighbor or two closer to the major road have had issues. Most of the locals would not want to mess with our partners in our farming operation as these are big boys who would inflict some major pain on anyone they might encounter trying to cause problems or steal things (and "major" is probably an understatement). I can understand your wish to avoid getting the internet....we continue to fight the millennials in our family who want to constantly be "connected". This is mostly a weekend place where we go to be "disconnected".

In any case, in terms of projects for 2017, I have decided to make a list that is actually doable and not just fantasy. I am a list guy who always totally overestimates what I can actually get done within a given time frame. This is what I was jotting down a few days ago (BL, BJ and #1 are our 3 BOWs):

Early spring 2017 focus on:

1. Harvest targets in BL and #1: meet the 2016 targets (fell slightly short).
2. Algae, etc. control: plan on 2 treatments of copper sulfate (100 lbs. total). Then use the Cutrine Plus/Diquat combo in tank sprayer for spot treatment. Figure out sago/coontail issue in BJ.
3. Habitat improvement in all three ponds. More brushy cover in 2-6 feet deep water. PVC structures in all.
4. Build dock in BJ Lake (5 X 10).
5. Move some fish around in all ponds. Swap BG and LMB. Buy a 40 gallon stock tank and 12-volt aerator to facilitate the process.
6. Grass Carp: stock 6/7 in each smaller pond and 20 in the BL.
7. Raise water level @ BJ 12-18 inches.

Fall 2017: focus on stocking new genetics

1. BJ: 300 adult BG, 50 feed trained 1 lb. LMB. Texas Hunter feeder.
2. #1: 25 adult BG, 25 1 lb. LMB
3. BL: 75 adult BG, 50 1 lb. LMB

Looking toward mid-March in our area to get started on these items. If I can get this stuff done (I have friends more than willing to help)I will be well on my way to improving our fishing.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all. BM61.

Last edited by bassmaster61; 12/23/16 01:50 PM.