Caring for fish ponds during the Summer
Ricky Thompson

Summer months can be bad for fish in small farm ponds, especially if pond owners fail to recognize the signs and take quick action to correct low oxygen conditions.

Warm temperatures lower the water's ability to hold oxygen. The activity of fish increases with water temperature. The net effect is that the summer is a time when oxygen demand is greater but less may be available.

Pond owners entering the summer months with heavy loads of fish (1000 pounds per surface acre or more) should be aware that they are prime candidates for oxygen depletion.

Enough fishing pressure should be placed on the fish in these ponds to lower the population well below the carrying capacity. This approach will allow for fish growth during the summer months without creating conditions that are conducive to oxygen depletion.

Improper feeding techniques may also contribute to oxygen depletion. Do not overfeed during this time of year. Feed a floating fish food, no more than the fish can clean up in 10 to 15 minutes to prevent overfeeding.

Another leading cause of oxygen depletion in farm ponds is improper weed control. Pond owners who delay treatment of aquatic weeds until their growth is extremely heavy may cause oxygen depletion due to decomposition of the dying plants.

To prevent oxygen depletion during weed treatments, apply herbicides early in the growing season or treat the pond in sections. Allow one week between applications to lesson the likelihood of killing fish due to low oxygen levels.

Other problems can also cause fish kills. Ammonia build-up in the ponds and cattle uses is probably the two most common causes of fish death other than oxygen shortages.

These simple steps will help farm pond investments and lead to more enjoyable recreational opportunities for family and friends.

Ricky Thompson, the Texas Cooperative extension agent, can be reached at 384-3721.