I've got to admit, when I look at what I've invested in construction, docks, fish, landscaping, and structure, $800 seems reasonable. I've just always had the conference in my mind as a conference for professionals, land managers, pond managers, guys with hatcheries, etc..
I've just got a one acre pond,that's usually smaller than that due to the ongoing drought, and a small leak. I "assumed" that most of what was being presented wasn't going to apply to me. It's for the guys I call when I need help. I just recently decided not to add aeration to my pond due to cost issues, and a limited budget.
Maybe something on a smaller scale would make more sense for me. Just my $.02..
Jeff

9 yr old pond, 1 ac, 15' deep.
RES, YP, GS, FHM (no longer), HBG (going away), SMB, and HSB (only one seen in 5 yrs) Restocked HSB (2020) Have seen one of these.
I think that's about all I should put in my little pond.
Otter attack in 2023