My 2 cents on salamanders...you do not typically see populations of salamanders in ponds with fish in them too. Not to say that they do not frequent these ponds, but will rarely establish a successful reproducing population...they just get eaten by the gamefish too quickly.

Your ditch may improve your chances, however...if you can find an affordable source. I would consider putting in a screen at the ditch to pond junction so that after the ditch goes dry (occasionally) it would help keep the salamander predators out).

The ponds that I have seen with good populations of salamanders in them are the old small ones that have filled in over the years, have had trees grow up entirely around them, and tend to dry up most years. This keeps any fish from getting established, provides plenty of cool shade and lack of light for much vegitation, and has alot of nutrients for producing bugs.


Fish on!,
Noel