Yes if you are going to be feeding fish, stocking higher densities, and boosting productivity then all these things increase oxygen demand and then aeration should be installed especially in or before year two. Watershed water quality can increase the need for aeration. Again water clarity less than 3ft plays a big role in need for aeration. In my region of NW Ohio, I suggest fill the pond and wait until the water clears to 3ft-4ft. Most pond owners in my area wan as clear of water as possible. Clear water to them indicates good water quality as in a swimming pool. If you add aeration while the pond is still turbid 12"-2ft of clarity adding aeration will tend to keep the suspended particulates in suspension and not let the pond clear up beyond 3ft. Phytoplankton green hue blooms in new water can occur to keep water less clear. Some ponds due to local conditions are perpetually turbid with and without aeration.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 11/26/19 08:22 PM.
