H2Ofwler - The middle of the rock pile was too dense and not accessible for good forage production, Actually IMO that rock pile would have had more benefit if it was spread out as a longer 1-2 rock layer thick along the top of the waterline in a fashion similar to the pond's existing stone ledge shown in your picture.
The rocks are from small football size to maybe 2-3 times bigger than a basketball. I agree on the coming out from the ledge being better habitat but with the top concerns being for recreation and swimming at that particular pond putting them shallower was never an option.
