Don :

Welcome to the PB forum and good luck with your pond.

To answer your second question about F1 LMB involves knowing what is you goal with respect to LMB. There are studies in Ill. that show that both Fla. and F1's do poorly in most of the state (really all but the extreme southern part) and do not reach their potential. I would think that you would be better served with northern LMB from a local (area) supplier who has both quality fish and a good reputation. If you want to post your goals for the pond I will look up the info/results on the F1's and provide them.