Deertexas, I’ve used lots of stuff. When the pond was dug, there were lots of big rocks. I had them piled up. Then I added some big trees. I figured I had it made.Then we got the big rain I had been wanting. The couple of acres pond filled about 3/4 and I stocked with fathead minnows and small bluegills. Everything was great for a couple of weeks. Then the water turned black and my fish all died.

Long story short. I had used oaks. Oaks have something called tanins that poison the water and kill the fish. I spent a long time pumping it dry. Then I burnt the whole mess and started over with cedars. Prior to the cedars, I used the front end loader on my tractor to remove the ashes. As you might expect, the next rain didn’t come as soon as I hoped.

Test. Get a dozen minnows and put them in a bucket with whatever wood you want to use.

It's not about the fish. It's about the pond. Take care of the pond and the fish will be fine. PB subscriber since before it was in color.

Without a sense of urgency, Nothing ever gets done.

Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley Rancher and Farmer Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP Grandpa