What is the best way to eat an elephant?

One bite at a time.

You have multiple problems in your pond. Keep posting your questions and problems and there are lots of knowledgeable people on Pond Boss that will help.

You have done a good job of describing your situation. That is very important, because sometimes going too hard after one problem can make another problem worse.

Your aerator should be a big help to your pond health in the long run. Do you have AC power to your pond?

How deep is your pond at full pool?

What are your goals for the pond?

Welcome to Pond Boss, and good luck on your pond project!