I have a existing pond that we are rehabbing. Drained majority and removed majority of muck and it is currently 3/4 full. There are no fish in pond. Is it necessary to follow the aeration start up procedure or can I let it run 24/7 from the start? I will be adding fatheads within the next 30 days.

Gradual aeration start up is not necessary when no fish are in the pond.