HomeMy WebLinkAboutLawrence Road (18) 1992
SELLING FISH
HATCHERY --KIND--OF-- -KIND- OF
PROPRIETOR NAME AND LOCATION FISH RAISED "-c
Richard J. Bobowick Rowledge Pond Hatchery Channel Catfish,
59 Rowledge Pond Rd. 59 Rowledge Pond Rd.. Largemouth Bass,
Sandy Hook, CT 06482 Sandy Hook, CT 06482 Channel Catfish,
Baitfish
Jean M. Cardinal Buttonball Hatchery Trout
P.O. Box 86 P.O. Box 86
Willimantic, CT 06226 Willimantic, CT 06226
455-0342
Howard H. Harding Harding' s Trout Farm Trout
1 Ash Lane 1 Ash Lane
Southbury, CT 06488 Southbury, CT 06488
264-0895
Henry E. Hein (No Name) Shiners
303 Meadow Road 677-0565
Farmington, CT 06032
kJohn & Linda Jenkins John & Linda Jenkins Trout
62 Lost Acres Road 62 Lost Acres Road
North Granby, CT 06060 North Granby, CT 06060
653-7176
William Kuras Kuras Fish Farm Grass Carp,
1559 N. Gram Street W. Suffield, CT 06093 Trout, Catfish
W. Suffield, CT 06093 668-5389 Minnows, Bass
Martin D. Michalec Michalec Pond Hatchery Shiners
P.O. Box 33 Buckley Hgwy.
Stafford Springs, CT Union, CT 06076
684-2228
Joseph S. Netolicky Joe' s Bass Farm/Hatchery Largemouth Bass
12 Dickerman Ave. 12 Dickerman Ave. Bluegills, Perch,
Windsor Locks, CT Windsor Locks, CT 06096 Crappies, Catfish
623-7980
William F. Richmond •Lanesville Bait Hatchery Shiners
' P.O. Box 505 117 Old Town Park Road
New Milford, CT 06776 New Milford, CT 06776
Robert L. Theiren Oak Hill Farm Bass, Bullhead
1247 N. River Road 1247 N. River Rd. Perch, Bluegills
Coventry, CT 06238 Coventry, CT 06238
Carl A. Zulick Bybrook Hatchery Largemouth Bass,
107 Zaicek Road 107 Zaicek Road Sunfish,Bullhead,
Ashford, CT0627.8 _Ashford,_ CT 06278 Pickerel Shiners
429-4067(Evening Only) - Minnows,Gras-s.,
Carp
Also, most U.S. County Soil Conservation Service (SCS) offices
sell fingerling trout each fall. For information contact your
local SCS office which can be found in the blue pages of your
phone book.
Fishing For Fee
Helen G. Boehm Mohegan Waters Trout
140 Far Mill St. Huntington, CT 06484
Huntington, CT 06484 929-0165
OUT OF STATE
COMMERCIAL HATCHERIES
(known- to -ship- to---Conn-Connecticut)
NAME AND LOCATION OF HATCHERY KIND OF FISH RAISED
American Fish Culture Co. Trout
Main Street
Carolina, Rhode Island 02812
401-364-7741
Cedar Springs Trout Hatchery Trout
R.D. #2
Mill Hall, Pennsylvania 17751
717-726-3737
Cherry Valley Trout Hatchery Trout
RFD #4
Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania 18360
717-992-4429
Green-Walk Trout Hatchery, Inc. Trout
P.O. Box 3025 RD #3
►Bangor, Pennsylvania 18013
215-588-1421
Harriman Trout Co. Trout
Rt. 1 Box 173
St. Ignatius,, Montana 59865
406-745-4355
Kurtz Fish Hatchery Bass
P.O. Box 155 RD #2 Bluegill sunfish
Elberson, Pennsylvania 19520 Shiners
Mohawk Trout Hatchery Trout
467 Amherst Road
Sunderland, Massachusettes 01375
413-665-2888
Plymouth Rock Trout Co. Trout
r.0. Box 75
Plymouth, Massachusettes
617-746-0788
Zetts Fish Hatchery Trout
Drifting, Pennsylvania Walleye
814-345-5357 Minnows
' �----\ 60 t.-.
fee
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Biological Sciences • Natural Resources 9 INFORMATION BULLETIN 116 • . 80 CENTS
AN EXTENSION PUBLICATION OF THE NEW YORK STATE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND LIFE SCIENCES,
A STATUTORY COLLEGE OF THE STATE UNIVERSITY, CORNELL UNIVERSITY, ITHACA, NEW YORK
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Authors Contents
A.W. Eipper, formerly an asso- 3 Kind of fish to stock
ciate professor of fishery biology 5 Pond location and construction features
at Cornell University, is presently
Region 5 Power Plant Siting Co- 7 Stocking regulations and sources of fish
ordinator with the U.S. Fish and g Biology and management of trout ponds
Wildlife Service. H. A. Regier Is
Biology and management of bass-shiner ponds
professor of zoology at the Uni- 12
versity of Toronto. 14 Biology and management of bass-bluegill ponds
16 Biology and management of other species
The authors gratefully ac- 17 Pond maintenance
knowledge the help rendered by
many colleagues and assistants 20 Regional Fish Managers and Game Managers of the New
in various phases of work leading York State Department of Environmental Conservation
to publication of this bulletin.
Particular thanks go to S. B.
Saila, D. A.Webster, H. B. Brum-
sted, C. A. Carlozzi, W. H. Wolf-
rum, E. P. Snyder, and R. W.
Wahl and to the many fish pond
owners who cooperated in the
investigation. Financial support Would you like our free
was provided by federal funds catalog of extension publi-
made available under the Dingell- cations? Send to:
Johnson Act and Hatch Act, by Mailing Room
the New York State Department Building 7, Research Park
of Environmental Conservation, Cornell University
and the New York State Conser- Ithaca, New York 14853
vation Councii. .Small portions of
the text originally appeared in
The New York State Conserva-
tionist.
1'
2
Fish Management
in
New York Ponds
There are more than 40,000 otherwise,they should be stocked make one pencil-sized hole in the
ponds in New York State and with fish that thrive in warmer top of a quart can of motor oil,
new ones are being constructed water. The only warm-water empty and wash it out. Punch
at the rate of about 1,000 a year. species recommended at present three very small holes in the top
Of the various pond uses, fishing are a combination of largemouth rim of the can and attach a wire
is one of the most popular be- bass and golden shiners or a com- bridle for suspending it,as shown.
cause it provides recreation for bination of bass and bluegiil sun- Use an unframed thermometer
the whole family, and the fish fish.This section discusses some with the degrees on the thermom-
caught are tasty and nutritious. of the factors that might Influence eter stem itself.' Insert the ther-
The purpose of this publication the pond owner's choice between mometer through the hole in the
is to discuss: trout and warm-water species. can and secure it with a rubber
• Factors to consider in decid- band to suspend the bulb in the
ing which fish species to Water temperature lower part of the can without its
stock. For trout, it is important that _ touching the sides. Obtain a
• Design and construction fea- bottom water in the pond remains stout bamboo pole 15 feet long
tures particularly important cool, for bass, shiners, and blue- and attach a 10-foot length of
in fish ponds. gills, it is Important that surface heavy twine connecting the bridle
• Where and how to obtain fish water becomes warm. to the end of the pole, as iilus-
for a pond. Survival of trout in New York trated.
• Growth, survival, reproduc- ponds is influenced more by max- Fill the can with water to make
tion, and yield that can be imum summer water temperature It sink. With the pole, hold the
expected from a fish pond in than by any other factor. can out over the deepest part of
New York. Although pond trout can with- the pond (usually about 16 It out
• Management practices for stand water temperatures as high from the middle of the dike) and
obtaining satisfactory fishing as 800 F.for periods of one or two lower it to the bottom. Leave the
from your pond. days, prolonged periods of water can on the bottom for at least
Information presented here is temperature above 74°F. will three hours to allow the water in
based largely on results of 12 cause trout to die. Whether a it to reach the temperature of its
years' work on more than. 150 pond will be suitable for trout de- surroundings. Then carefully
ponds in Central New York State. pends chiefly on how long the raise the can to the surface, dis-
The recommendations given coolest water, near the pond bot- turbing the water in it as little as
should apply to ponds across New tom, remains above 740 F. for any possible. Bring the can to shore
York that have surface areas up one period. and read the thermometer im-
to 2 acres and maximum depths Bottom water temperature, mediately, keeping the bulb well
of 7 to 15 feet. which may differ from that of the Immersed in the can of water.
surface by as much as 120 F., Taking a series of bottom water
can be measured accurately with temperatures during the last two
Kind of Fish to Stock a maximum-minimum thermom-
Ponds can be used for trout if eter or with a glass thermometer +Thermometers of this kind are stocked
the water does not become too suspended in a tin can (fig. 1). or can be ordered at hardware and photo-
warm during summer months; To suspend the thermometer, graphic supply stores.
1 3
Figure 1. Temperature of the
pond's deepest water can be ac-
curately measured with thermom-
eter suspended /n an empty oil
can. See directions in text.
Wit
1
ii l 6
• i k t' •
or three weeks of July will give whose surface temperatures almost any year. Many ponds fed
you an idea of what to expect seldom, if ever, rise above 720F.; entirely by runoff water from the
from your pond. trout should be stocked in all of surrounding watershed are ex-
Satisfactory growth and repro- these.Cool-water ponds are those cellent trout producers, although
duction of warm-water species whose bottom temperatures rise trout survival in these ponds may
occur when the surface water of above 740 F. for only short per{- be poor in unusually hot sum-
the pond becomes warm enough. ods and whose surface tempera= mers. In ponds fed entirely by
For bass and shiners the tempera- tures exceed 720 F. for periods of runoff water,chances of summer
ture should be above 72°F. and several weeks but only infre- trout mortality are less in those
for bluegills 80°F. for several quently reach 800F. or above; located at higher elevations, in
weeks each summer. New York trout or the bass-shiner combina- those having a maximum depth
ponds probably never' get too tion will do well in these. Warm- of at least 10 feet, and in those
warm for these species.To deter- water ponds are those whose sur- ponds that receive some shade.
mine a pond's suitability for face temperatures remain above In a pond where bluegills are
warm-water species, the owner 80°F. for considerable periods desired, springs will be a liability
should measure surface tempera- in summer; these should be if they cool the water enough to
tures periodically during the stocked with the bass-shiner or retard or prevent their spawning.
summer. This can be done by bass-bluegili combination.
placing a thermometer in undis-
turbed water, 12 inches below It is practical to use ponds as
the surface, but not touching the Source of water small as one-tenth acre (surface
bottom. Read the thermometer, if a pond has a permanent sup- area) for trout, because these
still immersed, after about five ply of spring water—that is, if fish can be stocked at high rates.
minutes. there is some water running out The bass-shiner combination will
New York ponds can be divided of the pond at all times—and the thrive in ponds of one-fourth acre
into three groups according to pond has a maximum depth of at and even one-sixth acre if the
their summer water tempera- least eight feet, then it is prac- pond has an average depth of four
tures.Cold-water ponds are those tically certain to support trout in feet or more. Usually the bass-
4
bluegill combination should be 20 to 40 pounds per acre (depend- best to begin with trout; because
stocked only in ponds larger than Ing on the number stocked), and pond trout are short-lived and
one-half acre. This combination bass-shiner ponds can provide almost never reproduce,It is easy
may succeed-in-a pond-as small as ---bass harvests averagingabout 25- to switch from trout to bass-shin-
one-third acre it the pond has all pounds per acre per year. Bass- ers whenever you wish. On the
the recornmended construction bluegill populations can support other hand, once warm-water
features and can be carefully average harvests of about 15 species are established in the
managed. pounds of bass and 35 pounds of pond, it is Impossible to change
bluegills per year. over to trout without first killing
Effect of water plants Although trout and bass ponds off the entire warm-water popu-
Water plants become a problem are more commonly underfished lation by draining or by using
in most ponds if they are not con- than overfished, it is still possible chemicals, either of which may
trolled periodically by chemical to"fish out"trout and bass. Fish- present difficulties.
or mechanical means. The own- Ing quality usually deteriorates If you have a warm-water pond,
er's choice of fish may be influ- fairly rapidly in a pond that is stock either bass and shiners or
enced by the amount of time and subject to uncontrolled fishing. bass and bluegills. The bass-
money he or she can spend on shiner combination usually pro-
control. Information on the con- Main drawbacks with each daces more bass fishing (but
trol of large plants and algae in stocking method only bass fishing) and requires
farm ponds is available in Cornell Trout seldom reproduce in farm less management. Bass-bluegill
Information Bulletin 107, Aquatic ponds, seldom survive beyond ponds provide fishing for two
Plant Management and Control. three or four years, and usually species, but are usually more
In trout and in bass-shiner must be restocked every two years time-consuming to manage. In
ponds, moderate amounts of to maintain satisfactory fishing. ponds smaller than one-half acre,
plants (covering up to one-fourth In bass-shiner ponds, shiners bluegill numbers may be very
of the pond's surface area) seem usually become extinct during the difficult to control.
to increase fish production. How= first five years after stocking.
ever, most biologists recommend Smaller bass then tend to become pond Location and
that a bass-bluegill pond be too numerous and stunted. If this Construction Features
kept free of plants, and thus the occurs, some of the smaller bass
bass-bluegill pond owner must (between 8 and 10 inches) must The importance of proper loca-
usually practice more intensive be harvested. tion, design, and construction of
control. If the pond is overflow- In bass-bluegill ponds,bluegills any pond cannot be overempha-
ing, a permit must be obtained_ usually produce more young than sized. Technical assistance on
for the use of any weed control the bass will eat. Bluegill growth these matters can be obtained
chemical. rates then decrease.If too many of from the Soil Conservation Ser-
the smaller bluegills are present, vice, and other aid may be avail-
Kind of fishing provided fishing deteriorates;moreover the able through the Agricultural Sta-
Trout, bass-shiner, and bass- bass population may suffer from bilization and Conservation
bluegill ponds differ somewhat bluegill competition for food and Program.Every prospective pond
in the kind of fishing they pro- space. Crowded bluegill popula- owner should consult the county
vide. Because pond trout are us- tions need to be thinned by trap- agricultural agent for specific
ually hard to catch during the ping or seining; it may even be information on the pond services
summer months,trout ponds offer necessary to drain or poison the available in the county and on the
most fishing during the fall, pond and begin again: design and construction of ponds.
winter,and spring.Bass and blue- The following discussion is
gills provide most fishing during Which species should you stock? limited to those aspects of the lo-
the spring and summer months. if yours Is a cold-water pond, cation and construction of ponds
Under New York conditions the stock trout. of particular importance In fish
difference in total pounds of fish If you have a cool-water pond, management.
produced with the three types of stock either trout or the bass-
stocking described here is not shiner combination. Remember Location
large.2 Trout ponds can support that trout have to be restocked For satisfactory fish produc-
average annual harvests of about every two or three years. if you tion, the pond should be located
have a new pond and do not where sufficient depth and the
'Detailed stocking recommendations know whether to start off with best possible water supply can be
are given in later sections. trout or bass-shiners, It might be obtained.
i 5
A location near the house is springs feeding the pond are Water supply
essential if the pond is needed for exceptionally large. Runoff For New York ponds fed en-
fire protection. This location also ponds should be 10 feet deep for tirely by runoff water, a five-acre
lessens the chance that unautno- trout, although somewhat shal- watershed is generally adequate
rized persons will fish or stock the lower ponds will give good results to maintain a one-acre pond. If
pond; either action can have ad- in some years. there is some permanent supply
verse effects. Fish ponds should Bass and shiners thrive in cool of spring water, the watershed
not be located where they will or warm water, bluegills in warm area can be reduced proportion-
receive barnyard drainage. water. Thus ponds fed by large ately. if the watershed is larger
A pond to be used for fish pro- springs will seldom be suitable than necessary, the excess water
duction should not be located for these species. When most of flushing through the pond inter-
where it will receive silty runoff the pond's water comes from run- fares with the fish's food chain
from land regularly cultivated. off, the water level and, conse- by carrying out nutrients and
Such runoff interferes with pro- quently, the water depth tend to plankton. Large outflows may
duction. of fish food organisms fluctuate. The water level is also permit the fish to Leave the
and reduces fish production. As usually lowest in late summer. pond and may endanger the dike.
silt deposits build up, the pond For satisfactory production of Unneeded runoff water can be
gradually becomes too shallow. bass or bluegills or both, fluctu- kept out of the pond by construct-
ations in water level should not ing a diversion ditch.
Size, depth, and slope be severe, and the pond's maxi- Whenever possible, water by-
If properly constructed and in- mum depth should never be less passed from an adjacent stream
tensively managed, ponds as than about 7 feet. This means should not be used to supply a
small as one-tenth acre are suit- that maximum depth in late farm pond used for fish produc-
able for trout,ponds down to one- spring should be at least 8 feet. tion. Practically all streams con-
sixth acre are satisfactory for It follows that if a pond is to be tain undesirable fish of various
bass and shiners, and ponds of used for irrigation, maximum kinds, and some of these everi-
one-half (occasionally one-third) depth after water withdrawals tuall s ponds. Streams d their way into most
acre or larger can be used for bass should be at least 7 or 8 feet. by-pass
y-Pas
fre-
and bluegills. Of course, the All sides of the pond should quently carry heavy silt loads, es-
larger the pond, the more fish it have 2:1 slopes out to a point pecially after heavy rains. In
will support and the more fishing where the water is always at least many cases the stream water be-
it will provide. 3 feet deep. This minimizes the comes too warm for trout.
Trout require cool or cold wa- area of shallow water where if it is essential to use by-pass
ter, even in midsummer. The plants thrive and lessens plant water for a fish pond, contamina-
deeper the pond, the cooler its problems considerably. In trout tion by unwanted fish can be pre-
bottom water will remain. For ponds shallow water is also un- vented or minimized if the water
trout, New York ponds with a desirable because it warms up enters the pond through a pipe
year-round supply.of spring water quickly during sunny weather whose outlet is at least 21/2 feet
should have a maximum depth and warms the whole pond when above 2 the maximum
fallsp n a x
level bo
of at least 8 feet. Seven feet is mixed with the deeper water by about). feet square, or larger
occasionally enough when wind actiorr.
i 6
N
f
Figure 2. 11 a by-pass water sup-
ply must be used, this box with
screened bottom may keep out
weed fish.
large amounts of water enter the structure is expensive, fish are Stocking Regulations
pond. The sides can be wood or less likely to escape through It and Sources of Fish.
sheet metal and are about 16 in- than over a spillway. If only a
ches high. The top of this box is spillway is used, it should be as Before fish can be stocked or
open, but the bottom consists of wide and level as possible to restocked In any pond or other
plastic window screening (about spread the outflowing water in a water, permission to do so must
15 meshes to the in.), thoroughly thin sheet. A small wooden dam be obtained from the State De-
reinforced from below by wooden two to four inches high across the partment of Environmental Con-
or metal slats.The box is mounted spillway tends to prevent escapes. servation through the regional
securely on four legs; water from If a screen is used for this pur- fish manager.3 The procedure is
the inflow pipe falls directly onto pose, it should not be more than simple,and there is no charge for
the screening. The screen should four inches high because it soon the permit.
be at least 6 inches above maxi- becomes clogged and merely acts Fish for stocking privately`
mum water level. The construc- as a dam. owned ponds must be obtained
tion must be sturdy, and all parts A drain pipe is an important from commercial hatcheries. The
should be protected against rust asset in any fish pond. If the program under which the United
and rot. Fish entering through pond develops leaks, it can be States Fish and Wildlife Service
the pipe are deposited on the drained and repaired. If undesir- supplied fish through local Soil
screen where they die from lack able fish enter the pond, it is Conservation Service offices has
of water or from being beaten often easiest to remove them by been discontinued. Your local
against the screen by the falling draining. If b.luegilis become Soil Conservation Service office
water. Experience will determine seriously overcrowded, or if par- or the regional fish manager for
how often it must be cleaned to tial winterkill occurs in bass- your area should be able to pro-
keep debris out of the box. This bluegill ponds, it may be best to vide a list of commercial hatch-
will vary with the season. . drain the pond and begin again. eries in New York and neighbor-
Use tile or pipe to lead spring ing states. A list of these hatch-
water from the place where it Fencing eries is also available from the
first appears above.ground into Livestock should not have ac- New York State Department of
a trout pond. This method can cess to a farm pond. Their tramp- Environmental Conservation, Bu-
keep the inflowing spring water ling and wading not only en- reau of Fisheries, 50 Wolf Road,
as much as 15"F. cooler than if it danger the dike, but keep the Albany, New York 12201. Hatch-
were allowed to trickle into the water turbid and reduce the pro- eries operated by the New York
pond above ground.The tide need duction of fish food organisms. State Department of Environ-
not be buried much below ground Simple structures for providing mental Conservation do not sup-
level.. stock water outside the pond are ply fish for privately owned
described in Cornell Extension ponds.
Water control structures Bulletin 949, Farm Ponds in New In some counties the Soil and
A combination trickle tube and York. Water Conservation Committee
drain pipe is particularly desir- 3A directory of regional fish managers
able in any pond to be managed for the various counties of New York State
for fish production. Although this is given on page 20 of this bulletin.
has coordinated a group purchase +: IIII�IIII 111LIIIIL iLIIIIIII IIIIIIIIi llll111111IIlIIIIII)IIIJIIII I111IIIiI IIIIIIII'II:iiII'i"' I' ;Iiii I'
of fish from reliable suppliers. �'. ; + -__' _ -
Check with your local Soil and
Water Conservation office to see _
if such a program is available in
Your area. The major advantage
of a group purchase is a reduction
in shipping costs and, possibly, a
large quantity discount in price.
Biology and Y
Management of
Trout Ponds
Kinds of trout
Brook trout (fig. 3) or rainbow Figure 3. Brook trout.
trout (fig. 4) are equally suitable
for New York ponds. Many people :��� ••
consider the brook trout to be
better eating. Although neither
species is difficult to catch in the + pit�'" " ++•;3'
cooler months of the year, it is
easier to "fish out" a brook trout
population. On the other hand,
rainbows are generally con Sid
ered to be more spectacular fight-
ers. A mixture of these two kinds •
of trout can be stocked in a pond Figure 4. Rainbow trout.
to provide greater variety of
fishing. if both kinds of trout are
stocked, they should be roughly
the same size so that one group „ w ' .• •,
will not prey heavily on the other. s + +rrtrr � 4,
The United States Fish and Wild-
life Service can supply only brook
trout or rainbow trout, which-
ever is available, but not a mix-
ture.
Brown trout (fig. 5) are gen- • ��
eraliy unsatisfactory in New York
ponds because they are more dif- Figure 5. Brown trout.
ficult to catch than either brook
or rainbow trout. Thus browns
provide poor to mediocre fishing
and a low yield on the investment.
Also,the old brown trout remain- ulation is killed off and a new trout thrive on an insect-rich,
Ing in a pond prey heavily on the trout population established. fish-free diet.
fingerlings introduced for re- There are a few kinds of small,
stocking. nonprolific minnows that might Stocking recommendations
Trout are unable to compete not interfere with trout produc- Either spring fingerlings (2 to
successfully with most other fish tion. However, it is very difficult 3 in. long, 2 or 3 months old) or
In a pond because these other fish to obtain these "harmless" min- fall fingerlings(5 to 6 inches long,
multiply rapidly and monopolize nows without getting some harm- 7 or•8 months old) can be used in
the food. Contaminating species ful ones as well. For these rea- stocking farm ponds with trout.
will ruin the pond for trout pro- sons,no minnows or other fish of Both types reach catchable size
duction until the entire fish pop- any kind should be stocked.Pond about the same time, that is, In
I� 8
the spring following stocking. Trout should be transported surface acre, the trout generally
However, results with spring fin- only in the cool or"cold weather average about eight Inches long
gerlings are much more variable of spring or fall. If there is danger by the following spring. Growth
and unpredictable than with fall that the tank's water temperature rate generally decreases as the
fingerlings,except in ponds con- will rise above 550 F. during fish grow older and is usually"
taining no fish and fed by strong, transit,then ice should be packed somewhat faster in summer than
permanent springs. around the tank. If Ice is to be in winter.
When trout are obtained from placed In the water used for car- Growth rates vary considerably
commercial hatcheries In the rying fish, it is absolutely essen- from one pond to the next. Trout
East, spring fingerlings, usually tial to use Ice made from non- probably grow a little more
sell for about$10 to $18 per hun- chlorinated water since very mi- slowly in the first few months
dred and fall fingerlings for about nute quantities of chlorine will after a pond has filled, before it
$20 to $30 per hundred FOB. At kill fish. If the fish are to be trans- has built up a large supply of
these prices, fall fingerlings us- ported considerable distances, aquatic insect life, the trout's
ually provide considerably more then the water should receive principal food. Also trout tend to
catchable size trout per dollar in- oxygen. Oxygen-producing tab- grow more slowly in soft (acid)
vested than will spring finger- lets (2 per milk can) can be used water than in hard (alkaline)
lings. It is very uneconomical to and are available in sport and water.
purchase trout larger than about bait shops.
six inches for pond stocking. When stocking trout, place the Survival
Thus, It is usually best to use can or bucket in the pond and tip Survival of pond trout tends to
fall fingerlings for trout stocking it gently on its side so that the fluctuate with annual variations
in New York ponds. fish can swim out. Do not plant in average summer temperature.
Trout should never be stocked them near the overflow structure. In the first year after stocking,
during the warm season. Spring If the temperature of the water in survival also varies with the size
fingerlings, if stocked, should be the pond differs from the temper- of fingerlings stocked. During
planted no later than May 1; fall ature of water in the transport the summer following stocking as
fingerlings should be planted tank by more than 50F the fish spring fingerlings, the survival
after September 30. should be "tempered" gradually is highly variable, averaging
In most New York ponds, 600 to the pond temperature over a only about 30 percent. In the two
fall fingerlings (or 2,000 spring period of 1 to 2 hours.Tempering succeeding summers, average
fingerlings) per acre of pond sur- can be done by adding pond water survival is about 50 percent.
face should be stocked to produce slowly to the transport tank. Re- Overwinter survival of trout in
the maximum yield of fish consis- member to obtain a state permit each year of pond life is com-
tent with satisfactory growth. before transporting or stocking monly 60 and 80 percent.
Some ponds that are ideal for fish. The dotted line In figure 6
trout can be stocked at rates of shows the average number of
700 fall fingerlings per acre. Oc- brook or rainbow trout remain-
casionally trout in ponds located Growth ing in an unfished pond during
on exceptionally low-lime soils Brook and rainbow trout grow the three years following stock-
at high elevations will show satis- at about the same rate in New ing at a rate of 600 fall fingerlings
factory growth only when stocked York ponds. Average lengths and (or 2,000 spring fingerlings) per
at 400 fall fingerlings per acre. weights iri spring and fall for acre. if lower stocking rates are
When the pond owner obtains three years after stocking are used, the number of survivors at
stock, he or she should take spe- given in table 1.In a pond stocked any time will be proportionately
cial precautions that the trout with either 2,000 spring finger- less.
will enter the pond in good condi- lings or 600 fall fingerlings per From the graph it is clear that
tion. The hatchery person may
advise the owner concerning
number and size of containers to Table 1..Average lengths and weights of pond trout in the first three
bring along. Thoroughly clean years following stocking
.plastic garbage cans with covers
can be used to transport trout First year Second year Third year
(100 fall fingerlings per 30-gal Spring Fan Spring Fan Spring Fall
can), although larger tanks, with
covers, are often more satisfac- Weight,ounInchces
s.t to.t 1t.t 14 t17 12 2
tory. Weight,ounces 4 8 10 .14 17 22
9
J�
Table 2. Relation between num-
ber of trout per acre harvested in
the first year and number per
-- NUMBER PER ACRE acre that could be harvested In
STOCKING -- the second year after stocking.
600 POUNDS PER ACRE 120 Average figures for ponds stocked
\ at rates of 300 and 600 fall fin-
W 500 \\ 100 u gerlings per acre
a \\ a
a Number of trout per acre
W 80 W
IL 4 ,\00- d Available for harvest
\ m In second year
\ Harvested
M 300 \ so v In first year When stocking rate was:
z `\ a 3001acre 600/8cre
200 � 40 0 35 70
550 45 60
100 15 50
100 20 150 5 40
30
250 20
0 0 300 — 10
OCT APRIL OCT - APRIL OCT APRIL OCT
FIRST YEAR I SECOND YEAR I THIRD YEAR
Figure 6. Numbers and pounds of trout remaining In an unfished pond
after stocking with 600 fall fingerlings per acre.
few trout remain after three years placing beds of gravel in suitable averaging about 110 pounds per
in a pond, and four-year-olds are locations.To date no method has acre by fall of the first year fol-
a rarity,as is also the case in most been discovered for achieving lowing stocking, when about 230
other trout waters of the state. adequate natural reproduction trout (dotted line, same graph)
Fish mortality from natural in the average spring-fed pond remain. One year later only 41
causes is normally a gradual pro- without resorting to modifica- pounds (45 trout) are left.
cess and takes place more or less tions and additional construction Fishing trout ponds
continuously, even through the which require considerable out- Figure 6 shows that usually
dead fish are very seldom seen. lays of time and money. over g 90 percent of the stocked
Reproduction Trout production trout in an unfished pond will
Because most ponds lack a The total poundage of trout have died from natural causes
suitable spawning site, pond present in a pond at any time fol- two years after stocking. For
trout rarely reproduce, although lowing stocking is the net result maximum yield, a pond owner
they may go through the act of of two opposing trends: growth, should therefore harvest as many
spawning. A suitable spawning which increases poundage; and trout as possible during the first
site for trout consists of a gravel deaths, which reduce it. When two years.
area through which a good flow the growth rate exceeds the death The longer an owner waits be-
of water percolates during the in rate, there is a net increase in fore starting to harvest the trout,
cubation period, supplying the total poundage, and vice versa. the lower the harvest• will be.
eggs in the gravel with fresh, oxy- The continuous line in figure 6 Consider the example of a Mr.
gen-rich water and keeping them shows the total pounds of trout Dow and a Mr. Jones, who start
from being smothered by silt de- present in an average unfished out with identical one-acre ponds,
posits. in a very few ponds having New York pond during the three each stocked with 600 fall finger-
exceptionally large and concen- years following stocking with 600 lings. Natural deaths occur at the
trated springs, limited trout re- fall (or 2,000 spring) fingerlings. same rate in both ponds. In the
production has occurred naturally Under these conditions, total first year after stocking, Mr. Dow
at times or has been achieved by poundage reaches a maximum, harvests 165 trout, but Mr. Jones
i' 10
does no fishing in order to let his from that In the table. just the natural food produced
fish get larger. The second year Pond trout are generally much In the pond. Although supple-
both men fish equally hard and easier to catch in spring and fall mental feeding may increase the
catch equal percentages of their than in summer, and it is unwise growth rate an inch or two per
remaining trout populations. The to count on harvesting large num- year, it is rather expensive. - --
numbers of fish caught and re bers of them between late June Some pond owners may wish
maining in each pond would be: and early September. The most to feed their trout, either as a
successful method . of fishing hobby or to maintain much larger
Mr. Dow Mr. Jones may vary with the season and trout populations than the 600
Caught Left Caught Left with the individual fisher's skills. per acre recommended. This
First year Fly fishing, worm fishing, and would be a way to increase the
after spinning are all effective. fishing potential, especially in a
stocking 165 115 0 230 New York ponds also afford small pond. Pelleted trout food is
opportunities for winter ice fish- available through farm supply
Second year ing, with either worms or stores. Trout usually fdrm the
after habit of surfacing for pellets
stocking 35 5 70 10 weighted artificial lures. The lat- that are tossed on the same area
Total Catch 200(75 lb) 70(50 lb) ter may give best results when
moved up and down in short of the pond each day. Add only
Although Mr. Jones caught jerks,a foot or two above the bot- as much food as will be eaten
twice as many two-year-old fish tom. Out-of-season fishing for immediately. Otherwise, the de-
as Mr. Dow, Dow's total catch for any species can be done only by composing food may foul the wa-
the two years was nearly three the holder of a fish pond License, ter and suffocate the trout (see
times as great in numbers and members of the immediate fam- fish kills, page 17). Feeding
about 50 percent more by weight. ity,and employees (see page 17). should probably be done only
Furthermore, the difference be- Minnows should never be used in ponds having some year-round
tween numbers of fish left in the for bait when fishing trout from spring water supply and should
two ponds at the end of the sec- ponds. If they escape and•later not be continued beyond Septem-
ond year was insignificant. reproduce in the pond, they will ber 1.
Large two-year-old trout re- usually ruin it for trout produc-
maining in the pond at restocking tion. Fertilizing trout ponds
usually eat some of the newly A single application of inor-
introduced fingerlings. To mini-
mize this predation, trout should Restocking trout g
be fished heavily during the sec- From what has already been 300 pounds of 10-10-10 per acre
and year following stocking. said about trout survival in ponds, can be applied to a newly dug
The proportions of trout to be it is clear that a pond should be Pond as it is starting to fill. This
harvested in the first and second restocked every two years to is not a necessity but tends to
years after stocking are largely maintain adequate fishing. hasten the establishment of a
matters of individual preference. Fall fingerlings are recom- natural food supply. More fertili-
Table 2 gives the number of trout mended for restocking. They are zation than this endangers the
most likely to be available for har- much less likely to be eaten by trout.
vest in the second year when the large "holdover" trout of the In some New York ponds the
some particular number was har- previous planting than are the addition of about 1,000 pounds of
vested in the first year. This in- smaller spring fingerlings. commercial fertilizer per acre per
formation is given for one-acre The pond *can be restocked Year may suppress aquatic plant
ponds stocked either at 300 or either with 600 fingerlings per growth. However, fertilization
600 fall fingerlings per acre. if acre every two years or with 300 at this rate is usually directly.
yours is a one-quarter-acre pond, harmful to trout or indirectly
you would divide all the numbers per acre each year. The .latter harmful since it increases the
Y management plan maintains a risk of winterkill (see page 18).
in the body of the table by 4 and more even mixture of one- and
make proportionate adjustments two-year-old trout. Annual applications of about
f 300 pounds of fertilizer per year
or ponds of other sizes. Remem-
ber that these figures are based tend to increase trout- growth.
on average trout survival. in any However, this also stimulates
particular pond, the number of Feeding plant growth so much that the
fish available for harvest in the At the stocking rates recom- pond may become practically use-
second year is likely to differ mended, trout grow rapidly on less.
11
Biology and -
Management of 1
Bass-Shiner Ponds `
The bass-shiner combination is
recommended for cool-water and
warm-water ponds whose owners r ,
desire sport fishing for bass. This ~— f
combination will likely prove
satisfactory in ponds of one-sixth ' a
acre or larger where plants are
present but not abundant. •:;
Kinds of bass and shiners r 1 ' , �d ,i; .•,•�., ., �► A
In this bulletin "bass and shin-
ers" refers to a combination of
largemouth bass (fig. 7) and Figure 7. Largemouth bass.
golden shiners (fig. 8). Large-
mouth bass are recommended on
the basis of their proven ability N
to grow and reproduce in typical
New York cool-water and warm- 'Y
water ponds. Smallmouth bass
might be equally successful and
desirable in New York ponds, but
this is not yet known.
The golden shiner is one of a ``"t-�
t
number of minnows occurring
naturally In New York. It prefers Figure 8. Golden shiner.
quiet waters with plants on which
to deposit eggs and is quite pro-
lific. Bait dealers successfully duce in normal years and show (broken Fine, fig. 9).
raise the golden shiner in bait moderate growth to maximum In bass-shiner ponds, shiner
ponds as described In Cornell lengths of 15 or 16 Inches. populations usually reach a peak
Extension Bulletin 986, Raising about two years after stocking
Bait Fish and Crayfish in New Growth and then diminish in numbers,
York Ponds. Many anglers con- Growth rates vary considerably probably because of bass preda-
sider it to be the best bait fish of from pond to pond. Table 3 con- tion. in some of the experimental
our native minnows. tains data on average size at- ponds where this combination
tained by bass in some experi- has been tested, shiners have be-
Stocking recommendations mental New York bass-shiner come extinct four years after
Suitable ponds should be ponds. Shiners did not grow to a stocking; in others they have sur-
stocked with 100 bass fingerlings very large size in these ponds; vived for six or seven years. How-
(1 to 2 in. long) and about 400 the largest one found was 8.2 ever, bass have continued to
golden shiner adults (2'/2 to 4 in. inches long. A 16-inch large- thrive in all the tested ponds,
long) per surface acre. Golden mouth bass can swallow an 8- even those where shiners have
shiner adults are commonly avail- Inch golden shiner. been absent for three years. How
able from bait dealers for $5 to long this will continue, or
$10 per hundred. Bass prices are Survival whether shiners need be stocked
given on page 14. In most New As with growth, survival rates at all, is now being studied.
York ponds under one acre in sur- vary considerably from one pond
face area, bass predation usually to another and from year to year. Reproduction
eliminates the golden shiners In unfished experimental bass- Usually bass first reproduce as
within four years. Bass popula- shiner ponds,the number of origi- two-year-olds in New York ponds,
tions usually will continue in- nal bass declined from 100 per but occasionally may not repro-
definitely without any other fish acre at stocking to an average of duce until they are three or four
species present. They will repro- about 60 per acre five years later years old. Once bass have repro-
i, 12
Table 3. Average lengths and weights of bass, in experimental bass- is quite possible to remove most
shiner ponds at midsummer during years following stocking of the large original bass in a
quarter-acre pond in an evening's
Year after stocking _ fishing; if this is done, fishing will
be poor for at least a year or two.
First second Third Fourth Furs Experiments have shown that,
Length,inches 8.3 11.1 13.1 14.2 15.4 on the average, bass spawned in
Weight,ounces 5 12 18 22 25 New York bass-shiner ponds
reach a 10-inch size when three
years old. Since no bass are
spawned in the pond until two
years after stocking, it follows
that the original stock of bass
must provide all the bass fishing
for at least the first four years
100 100 after stocking. Knowing the av-
erage mortality rate of bass in
o� bass-shiner ponds, it can be de-
80 P` 80 termined that the average bass-
shiner pond should support har-
W LUvests of about 22 bass per acre
a per year from the second through
60 �•�••�. 60 oa the fourth summer after stocking.
'' STOCKED �. d Thereafter the bass spawned in
W c the pond should be fished at
cc �M about this same rate.
z 40 o�c 40 d About four years after stocking,
R Poundage from some bass-shiner ponds become
natural spawning crowded with bass 8 to 10 inches
Y0 20 long. Where this occurs, a good
proportion of such smaller bass
should be caught and removed
0 0 to give those remaining a chance
0 1 2 3 4 5 to grow. If the larger bass, say
YEAR FOLLOWING STOCKING those longer than 15 inches, are
returned to the pond, then these
larger bass will also help to thin
smaller
s
out the populationon of s
Figure 9. Average total numbers and pounds of largemouth bass in ones. A 15-inch i of i can
experimental bass-shiner ponds. Heavy lines:stocked bass remaining swallow an 8-inch largemouth.
in an unfished pond. Thin.line: poundage of naturally produced bass Harvesting the smaller bass
in ponds where stocked bass were fished moderately hard. and returning the larger ones
duced, they usually spawn suc- The thin line of figure 9 shows may also serve to maximize both
cessfully in each succeeding year, how the average poundage of the sport and the total catch from
shiners being present or not. young bass,spawned in the pond, a bass-shiner pond.
Shiners reproduce the year fol- increased when the originally Fertilizing bass-shiner ponds
lowing stocking and each year stocked bass were subjected to Bass-shiner ponds do not re-
thereafter so long as adults are moderate fishing pressure. quire intensive fertilization. To
present. Fishing bass-shiner ponds hasten the development of a nat-
Bass should not be fished until ural food supply, a newly con-
Bass production they have reproduced success- structed pond might be fertilized
Total poundage of original bass fully; that is usually not until two at the rate of about 400 pounds of
in unfished experimental ponds years after stocking. Thereafter, 10-10-10 fertilizer per acre for
increased to an average of 85 they can be fished intensively, the first year or two. A method of
pounds per acre five years after but only a limited number should applying fertilizer is given on
stocking (heavy solid line, fig. 9). be removed.at any one time. It page 16:
13
Biology and survival Reproduction
Management of The broken lines in figures 10 As in bass-shiner ponds, bass
and 11 show the average numbers generally first reproduce as two-
Bass-Bluegill Ponds of bass and bluegills, respec- year-olds in bass-bluegill ponds.
The bass-bluegill combination tively,"remaining in unfished ex They reproduce fairly regularly
is recommended for warm-water perimental bass-bluegill ponds thereafter. Bluegills usually first
ponds larger than one-half acre during the years following stock- reproduce as yearlings and regu-
and deep enough throughout to ing. For both bass and bluegills, larly thereafter. In New York
make plant control practical, survival differs markedly from ponds, bass spawn once, in late
whose owners can harvest at least one pond to the next,even among spring or early summer. Bluegills
165 bluegills per acre per year ponds that seem very similar may spawn more than once dur-
(see page 15). physically and biologically. ing the summer, depending on
Kinds of bass and sunfish
Largemouth bass has been the Table 4. Average lengths and weights of bass and bluegills In experl-
species most generally used with mental bass-bluegill ponds at midsummer during years following
sunfish in ponds. The suitability stocking
of the smallmouth bass for this
purpose in New York is not Year after stocking
known. Of the sunfishes native
to New York, the bluegill is the First Second Third Fourth Fifth
most suitable for pond stocking. Bass
Other native sunfish either grow Length,inches 8.3 10.1 12.0 13.8 14.8
more slowly, have a smaller max- Weight,ounces 5 10 15 20 24
imum size,or overpopulate ponds Btuegins
more rapidly than bluegills. No Length,inches 5.0 8.4 7.4 7.8 8.2
sunfish other than bluegills Weight,ounces 3 4 8
should be stocked, except pos-
sibly the redear (see page 17).
Bass-bluegill stocking
recommendations 100 100
Government agencies generally
provide 100 bass fingerlings (1
to 2 in. long) and 1,000 bluegili
fingerlings (about 1 in. long) per 80 %%V* 80
acre, both to be stocked during
W , W
the same summer. At present °;
there is no strong evidence that 60 �� 60 oe
Ui
these stocking rates should be d STOCKED ,�
changed or that the time of stock- ,� o
clef hatchebies itn New Ytork State, g 40 ay �'` 40 c
two- to three-inch bass finger- z QaJc �••�,,
lings cost about$50 per hundred,
and one- to two-inch bluegills 20 20
cost about $25 per hundred R Poundage from
(FOB). naturoi spawning
Growth 0 0
Table 4 contains data on aver- 0 1 2 3 4 5
age size attained by bass and YEAR FOLLOWING STOCKING
bluegills in experimental bass-
bluegill ponds in New York. Bass Figure 10. Average total numbers and.pounds of largemouth bass in
growth is usually a little slower experimental bass-bluegill ponds. Heavy lines:stocked bass remaining
in these than it is in bass-shiner in an unfished pond. Thin line: poundage of naturally produced bass
ponds. In ponds where stocked bass were fished moderately hard.
14
1
i
water temperatures. Biuegili re- tions apply to bass fishing In after five years, but reliable in-
production is frequently so suc- bass-bluegill ponds as were formation on this point is lacking.
cessful that bass cannot keep stated for bass-shiner ponds Because bluegills usually first
them under control; this leads to (page 13).The bass harvests from spawn as yearlings, and their
overpopulation and stunting of bass-bluegill ponds will likely young reach a size of about 6.5
bluegills. average less than bass harvests inches when three years old, the
Bass and bluegill production from bass-shiner ponds. The two original bluegill stock must pro-
The heavy continuous lines in reasons for this are that ap- vide all bluegill fishing for the
figures 10 and 1t show standing parently bass survival is usually first three years following stock-
crops, in pounds per acre, n or- lower in bass-bluegill ponds, and ing.In the average,well-managed
iginal bass and bluegills, , of or- that it takes four years for bass bass-bluegill pond, about 165
iginal,in average unfished experi- spawned in the average bass- bluegills per acre can and should
tivelymental bass-bluegill ponds. The bluegill pond to reach 10 inches be removed annually during the
in lines show how populations but only three years to do this In first three years following stock-
thin bass and bluegills, spawned in most bass-shiner ponds.Thus the ing. If the pond owner prefers to
of the average pond,increased when average bass-bluegill pond can wait until original bluegills are
original stocks were subjected to support annual harvests of only two years old and therefore lar-
moderate fishing pressure. about 11 bass per acre from the ger,then she or he should harvest
second through the fifth year about 215 bluegills per acre dur-
Fishing bass-bluegill ponds after stocking. Perhaps bass fish- Ing each of the second and third
Essentially the same considera- ing might improve somewhat years following stocking. If the
pond does not become crowded
with small bluegills, fishing
should continue at about this
M level. in terms of weight, average
140 bass-bluegill populations can
support annual harvests of about
15 pounds of bass and 35 pounds
f20 of bluegills.
Two important points follow
from these findings. The first is
that New York bass-bluegill
1000 t 100 ponds will not support unlimited
catches. The second point is that
after the second year about 15
� times as many bluegills as bass
800 STOCKED 80 can and should be harvested. On
u, a weight basis this is about 2 to 3
Y �% �� �; pounds of bluegills for every
Poundage from t pound of bass removed.
W 600 ��°'f natural spawning 60 W If bluegills become crowded,
as they frequently do, large num-
W N 1� Z bers of them should be removed
400 ; 40 o either by angling, with seines, or
Z with traps. Figure 12 shows a
•�� chicken-wire trap that is easy to
��.• 20 build and operate. Several such
200 •••� traps should be used, with the
number depending on pond size
and the speed with which a blue-
-0 gill reduction is desired. The
0 1 2 3 4 5 traps should be fished for at least
YEAR FOLLOWING STOCKING two weeks during June, July, or
Figure 11. Average total numbers and pounds of bluegills in experi- August and emptied daily.Baiting
mental bass-bluegill ponds. Heavy lines: stocked bluegills remaining them with cottage cheese sus-
in an unfished pond. Thin line: poundage of naturally produced blue- pended in a cloth mesh bag may
gills in ponds where stocked bluegills were fished moderately hard. increase the catch.Further details
1� 15
Figure 12. Trap for harvesting .r
1%i
bluegills. Made from chicken wire „'-•-; ,,. „ ! . _+ ~��*h
H r,, 1, r•1 I 11, 1
of one-inch mesh. Door is for re- `✓} �'+ "" t r r f I })�f-1 rr ,tll I,',r,r r � r r A
.r,Srr4�r'I , i 4tapSr
I r 1 jr P r r r l +�e
moving fish. r ,.ti ti9 +� •rlhltti'r'ti'�r �4 + y5} S
yr, r ,� 1t4 , t' r14 ,A 1 ,, ;,,;, $ } ,
Edl.r ,l ri, ,flf.l,+;ltif'irJr+?{f'l'I t nr. ;l'll�gt+r r}1�
y, , 7 r r r , r r,r 1�1 d JV�ir,
rr
1 . r 1
!,�rfr��{ l r• 1,i l r)1 11,, !�/�.1�i ,,� � 4 �i
..., w �y. , r;�S, ���:•: wee))+ne �'j...��Y � yQ'.
►µ� ::.Y. 2&
on bluegill trapping are given August. (The formula recom- Largemouth or smalimouth bass
in Wildlife Mimeo Number 16, mended in the South, 8-8-2 or alone
available from the Department of 20-20-5, is not readily available It was found that experimental
Natural Resources, Fernow Hall, in New York.) The fertilizer need largemouth-bass-golden-shiner
Cornell University, Ithaca, New not be broadcast; simply cut a ponds tend to become bass-only
York 14853. Bass usually do not large .rectangular 'window' in ponds because the shiners often
enter the traps. one side of the bag and carefully become extinct.But bass continue
Infrequently, bass become lower it, window up, Into 18 to thrive after shiners are no
crowded in bass-bluegill ponds. inches of water in the windward longer present. Bass-only ponds,
Intensive angling for 8-to 10-inch corner of the pond. If a bloom containing either largemouths
bass probably will reduce their does not,develop in several or smalimouths, might provide
numbers sufficiently. weeks, another bag should be enough fishing for many New
added at another location in the York pond owners.Whether bass-
Fertilizing bass-bluegill ponds pond. Thereafter, an additional only ponds would provide as
Heavy fertilization is generally bag should be added when the much fishing as bass-shiner
recommended for bass-bluegill plankton bloom shows signs of ponds during the first two to four
ponds in southern states. One diminishing. To develop and years is not known. A suggested
purpose of such fertilization is to maintain a satisfactory bloom in a trial stocking is 150 bass finger-
produce dense plankton blooms one-acre pond may require 1,000 lings per acre.
which serve to shade out plants pounds or more fertilizer per acre
and prevent their growth. An- of pond surface annually. Channel catfish
other purpose is to increase pro- if plants become a problem, This species has been tested
duction of bluegills and possibly these should all be removed by In some New York ponds. Sur-
bass. either chemical or mechanical
In New York ponds, fertiliza- means before more fertilizer is vival immediately following
tion does not always result in added. Also, it is pointless to add stocking was very low in most
plankton blooms, and the fertili- fertilizer to a pond If large ponds.Where survival was good,
zer then merely serves to increase amounts of water flush through it catfish attained quite large sizes
plant growth. Also, the large periodically. (up to 12 lb) as they reached
amounts of organic matter ages of eight and nine years. Re-
formed may use up all the oxygen production was spotty; in one
In the pond while decomposing in pond it first occurred when fish
winter and thus suffocate the Biology and of the original stock- were. three
fish. For these reasons heavy Management of years old, in another when stock
fertilization is not recommended was eight years- old, and in an-
for most New York ponds; it may Other Species other no reproduction occurred
be relatively safe only in the What are the alternatives to during the first nine years. This
larger, deeper ponds. the given stocking and manage- species is difficult to rear in
Pond owners who decide to try ment recommendations? Can hatcheries; and therefore, stock
producing a plankton bloom other species be added to the is usually hard to obtain.
should apply an inorganic com- given combinations? These and
mercial fertilizer such as 10- similar questions are often asked; Brown bullhead
10-10 from late spring to mid- some suggestions follow. Bullheads (sometimes called
l+ 16
"catfish") are quite popular in bass or bass and bluegills. They after it has filled, the clay can
New York. Many pond owners have not been tested in New usually be precipitated by adding
are interested enough in this York. In other areas they grow ground agricultural limestone
species to add it (usually illegally) somewhat faster than bluegills, (calcium carbonate). This mate-
to whatever species were stocked are less prolific, but sometimes Hal is commonly available in
in the pond. Usually the results are more difficult to catch than farm supply stores. An appiica-
are unsatisfactory. bluegills. Perhaps this species tion of 1,000 pounds per acre will
Bullheads often reproduce in might be used as an alternative usually suffice to clear the water
ponds. They frequently overpop- to bluegills in suitable ponds of and keep it clear for two or more
ulate the pond and stunt at a southwestern New York. years. There Is no danger of an
small size. Bullheads stir up the "overdose" since limestone is
mud of the pond searching for pond Maintenance harmless to fish and in fact tends
insects Living there. If the bull- to increase the pond's productive-
heads are crowded, they may Fish-pond license ness. Other chemicals, such as
keep the pond almost perman- As stated in Section 358 of the gypsum and alum, will also settle
ently roiled.The muddiness inter- Conservation Law, the holder of out suspended clay, but these
feres with growth and reproduc- a license or "any member of his substances tend to acidify the Ova-
tion of other species in the pond immediate family, and any per- ter. Fish production is lower in
and also reduces the value of the son actually employed by him In acid waters.
pond for swimming and as a the cultivation of his farm or the Do not use lime or quicklime
source of domestic or stock water. management of the licensed pond (calcium oxide) which may kill
may without license . . . take fish the fish.
Yellow perch of any size,in any number, at any
Yellow perch have been tried time,in any manner permitted by Preventing fish kills
In a few New York ponds. They the Department." Partial or complete fish kills
are very good to eat, and popu- Application for a fish-pond li- are not uncommon in New York's
lations that are not crowded can cense should be made to the re- ponds. After a kill has occurred,
furnish good pan-fishing. Infor- gional fish manager (see p. 20). it is often difficult or impossible
mation available indicates that There is no charge for the license. to determine its cause with cer-
perch tend to reproduce aburi- Privately owned ponds used in tainty. Information in this section
dantly and soon overpopulate the connection with camps, motels, may assist a pond owner in mak-
pond with stunted fish. Appar- or hotels are not eligible for this Ing an educated guess about the
ently they are not cannibalistic license. Fish that have been cause of a fish kill, and also in-
enough to control their own num- caught from a pond may be trans- dicates how the risk of kills can
bers when stocked either alone ported off the pond owner's prop- be lessened.
or with species that are not fish erty only when certain regula- 1. Oxygen depletion
eaters. tions are observed.For these and For respiration, fish depend on
It has been suggested that certain other regulations, see oxygen that is dissolved In the
perch might act as a buffer In a Section 358 of the Conservation water; if there is insufficient oxy-
bass-perch-bluegili combination Law• gen in the water, the fish suffo-
in ponds by serving as an alter- The pond license described cate.Fish suffering from suffoca-
nate forage species for bass and above permits owners to plan tion can be seen struggling and
also.as an additional predator on fishing and management to suit gasping at the surface. All or
bluegills. This is probably partly themselves. Thus trout may be most of the fish are affected at
true,but it is likely an oversimpli- fished in fall, winter, and spring the same time. The fish die with
fication of what the effects really when they are most readily the mouths open and gills flared
are when these three species are caught. Similarly, bass may be out.
stocked together. As yet there is fished in spring before plants be- Summer kills caused by suffo-
no firm basis for conclusions come a problem. If warm-water cation usually occur between 4
about this species combination in species become crowded, small a.m. and 8 a.m. During the night,
New York ponds. fish may be removed. There are, green plants, fish, insects, bac-
therefore, important advantages teria, and other animals remove
Redear sunfish in possessing such a license. oxygen from the water, and so
Redear sunfish (also called the oxygen concentration in the
"shellcrackers")are popular pond Clearing muddy water water reaches its lowest point in
fish in the Midwest and South, in If the pond is still muddy with early morning.
combination with largemouth suspended clay three months The process of decay also re-
1� 17
e
quires oxygen. During the winter take place without the owner's talned each time it is necessary
months when the pond is ice knowledge. to poison a pond. Detailed infor-
covered, the animals, higher If a temperature kill occurs in a mation on treating ponds with
plants, and most bacteria and trout pond during a summer with rotenone is available from your
fungi are dependent on the oxy- approximately average tempera- county agricultural agent and
gen in the trapped water,plus any ture, the owner should consider from your regional fish manager
oxygen that may enter with in- restocking with bass and shiners of the Department of Environ-
flowing water or may be given off or bass and biuegllls. mental Conservation.
by well-lighted green plants liv- 3. Toxic substances Controlling muskrats
ing under the ice. Large amounts Occasionally fish are killed by
of decomposing animal or plant the introduction of poisonous ma- Muskrats damage ponds by
matter in the pond may then use terials into the pond. Such sub- burrowing into the banks. The
up the oxygen and thus cause fish stances include various Insecti- burrow starts about six inches be-
to suffocate. cides (such as rotenone, toxa- low the water line, slopes up-
Kills from oxygen depletion, phene,DDT,dieldrin,endrin,and ward, and is usually four to five
either in summer or in winter, organophosphates), sprays con- feet long. Such burrows may
occur most frequently in New taining large amounts of copper cause Leaks and dangerous
York ponds that are small and compounds,and many chemicals amounts of erosion. When the
shallow and have dense plant containing chlorine. The dying burrows collapse these problems
growths or in ponds treated with fish show various symptoms, de- are magnified.
large amounts of fertilizer or ma- pending on the kind and amount If possible, the prospective
nure. The chances of kills from of toxic material Introduced. builder should locate the pond in
suffocation can therefore be less- To avoid such kills, the above an area well removed from other
ened by building deeper ponds; Insecticides should not be used on water bodies, including streams,
by avoiding heavy fertilization, the pond watershed, and equip- which are potential sources of
including barnyard drainage;and ment used for applying these and muskrat Infestation.
by controlling weed growths, other sprays should*never be Whether muskrats are present
particularly in late summer. filled, emptied, or rinsed In the or not, the pond banks should
Chemical weed killers should not pond or tributaries to it. be kept mowed so that if damage
be used later than mid-Septem- occurs, it can be seen and cor-
ber. Eliminating undesirable fish rected promptly. Mowing also
2. High water temperature When a pond has become con- reduces the amount of protective
Of the fish species recom- taminated with fish species other cover for muskrats. Cattails and
mended for New York ponds, than, those stocked, it may be other emergent vegetation should
only trout suffer kills caused by necessary to eliminate them and be removed from the pond since
high temperature. When water start over again. Often this is these plants provide both food
temperatures throughout the most easily accomplished by re- and cover.
pond remain warmer than about moving all the water -from the Muskrats should be removed at
740 F. for more than a few days, pond by draining, siphoning, or once when there is evidence that
trout begin to die. This type of pumping. It is important that the they are damaging a farm pond.
kill Is usually progressive rather pond bottom become dry. They are most likely to move in
than sudden as with suffocation. If the pond cannot be dried,the during the spring or fall when the
At any particular time during the fish can be killed with rotenone, official trapping season is usually
hot spell, some dead fish may be an inexpensive chemical which closed.The simplest approach is
noted on the bottom or floating interrupts oxygen transfer in the to obtain a 'rider' on your fish
on the surface. Dying fish behave gills. In the very low concentra- pond license authorizing you to
in an abnormal manner; they ap- tions used for killing fish, rote- . trap muskrats from your pond at
pear sluggish or very inactive, or none Is entirely harmless to ani- any time for nuisance control
may swim slowly in circles or mals except for swine, which purposes. A pond owner who
in spirals. might be poisoned by drinking does not have a pond license can
Because high-temperature kills treated water. It is Illegal to use obtain a temporary trapping per-
usually are gradual and because rotenone in any body of water mit from the regional game man-
carcasses that float usually drift without first obtaining a permit ager.
ashore and are soon disposed of to do so from your regional fish $teel traps' are relatively inex-
by. racoons, skunks, and other manager of the Department of
animals, it is possible for a large Environmental Conservation. This is the type consisting of 2 steel
or complete temperature kill to Special permission must be ob- laws that snap shut.
�' 18
pensive, and are effective if set Fife that might otherwise become Information or assistance on pro-
properly. Of these, the "stop- fish food,their effect on manage- tecting a pond from these birds
loss" or "killer" models are more ment of a pond for fishing Is neg- should be directed to the regional
efficient although more expen- ligible. Furthermore, they serve game manager for your county
sive. Number 1'/2 or number 2 an Important function as food for (see page 20 for addresses).
traps should be used. various predatory birds and rep- By far the most damaging bird
Individuals inexperienced in tiles that may visit the pond and predator noted in New York
trapping techniques can use which, without this ready source ponds has been the domestic
cage-type live traps, which have of food,might make more serious Muscovy duck. In farm ponds
spring action doors, to remove- inroads on the fish population. where Muscovies have been pre-
muskrats. The traps are baited Occasionally water snakes take sent, trout survival over a five-
with carrot slices. Although the up residence near a pond, al- month summer period has fre-
cost per trap is several times though this Is common only in quently been as low as 10 percent.
more than for steel traps, only a ponds located close to streams. If it Is necessary to give_these
few live traps are necessary to To date there is no evidence that ducks access to a fish pond, they
effectively trap a pond; and since these snakes noticeably affect should be fenced and wing-
they catch the muskrats alive, pond fish populations, although clipped so that their activities are
pond owners can release the ani- they do eat fish.Water snakes are confined to a very small fraction
mals at some distant.point If they less docile than some other kinds of the total pond area.
wish. and may.strike if cornered and Moles are occasional farm pond
If a pond is constantly invaded sufficiently provoked. However, pests. Their tunnelling activities
and damaged by muskrats from they are nonvenomous. may destroy patches of the sod
nearby water areas or if the dike Snapping turtles occasionally cover on pond banks,with conse-
is especially narrow, the pond Inhabit larger ponds and,in a few quent erosion. Mole control by
owner may wish to rip-rap the instances,have been known to do trapping and information on the
shoreline with small rocks or some damage to fish popula- habits of moles are presented in
heavy gravel. These materials tions. Snappers can be dis- Cornell Extension Bulletin 729,
should.be extended at least one tinguished from other turtles by Control of Small Animals in
foot above normal water level and the saw-tooth rear edge of the Homes and Gardens. Moles also
at least three feet below it, in a upper shell. Other kinds of tur- can be succcessfully killed with
layer about three inches thick. tles are more common in New poisoned bait.
Areas so treated have fairly com- York ponds and are entirely
plete and lasting protection from harmless. Information on pond Commercial fish ponds
muskrats. The barrier also pro- turtles and their capture Is found Sometimes Individuals become
tects the shoreline against wave in Turtle Trapping, Fishery interested in the possibility of
erosion and improves the area for Leaflet 190, available from the operating a fish pond for financial
swimming. United States Fish and Wildlife profit.$ At present there is little
Service,Washington,D.C. 20240. information available from such
Miscellaneous pond animals Various wild birds occasionally ventures in New York State.
Frogs or salamanders (newts) visit farm ponds. As far as is However,certain general consid-
or sometimes both are common known, most of them do not set- erations and precautions can be
In many ponds. Strangely, lously affect the fish population, mentioned.
enough,frogs,tadpoles,and sala- with the exception of the great For any kind of commercial
manders are rarely found in the blue heron and kingfisher. There operation, owners should obtain
stomachs of pond trout, bass, or have been occasional instances as much detailed information as
bluegilis. These animals are en- of ponds well removed from roads possible about the actual profits
tirely harmless to humans and are or buildings where herons or they can expect. For this, they
a natural and interesting part of kingfishers have killed consider- would need accurate Information
any aquatic environment. There able numbers of fish and Inflicted on the existing or potential mar-
is no practical way of eliminating wounds of many of the remain-
them from the pond that would der. However, it is virtually im- °A useful reference on this general
not also eliminate the fish. Even possible for these birds to elimi- topic Is Fish Culture as a Livelihood,
Fishery Leaflet 97, available from the
If total eradication were achieved, nate a fish pond population unless United states Fish and wildlife Service,
the pond would very soon become the pond is extremely small and Washington 0. C. 20240. For further In-
repopulated. Although frogs and shallow. Herons and many other formation on fish raising,consult Culture
and Diseases of Game Fishes, by H. S.
salamanders consume a portion migratory birds are protected Davis,Univ.of California Press,Berkeley,
of the pond's plant and animal under federal law. Requests for Cant.
1, 19
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CONTENTS
Page "VMOnn�
Geographical range .--------------------------------------- 1 U
Water temperature ----------------------------------------- 1 POMM09
Summer -------------------------------------------------------- 1
Winter ------------------------------------------------------------ 2
Stocking the pond ------------------------------------------ 3 for recreation
Kinds of trout ---------------------------------------------
Number to stock ----------------------------------------- 3 By L. DEAN MARRIAGE, ADREY E. BORELL (retired), and PAUL M. SCHEVFER
Restocking 4 (retired), biologists, Soil Conservation Service
Where to et trout .--_---__--.------------------------
g ---- 4 Trout fishing in privately owned England, trout. thrive in ponds at
How to stock ------------------------------------------------- 5 ponds is becoming more and more lower elevations. Ponds at any ele-
Supplemental feeding ----------------------------------- 5 important to farm, ranch, and sub- vation or in any latitude, fed by
Harvesting the fish crop .------------------------------- 5 urban families. A trout pond not cold springs or cold wells, may be
Removing unwanted fish ----------------------------- 6 only provides good fishing but can suitable.
Selecting the pond site ---------------------------------- 6 also become the central point for
Planning the pond ----------------------------------------- 7 many other forms of recreation— Water Temperature
7 boating, swimming, sun bathing, ice Trout can live in water between
Size ----------------------------------------------------------------- skating, picnicking, and nature
Depth ------------------------------------------------------------- 7 study. Some farmers and ranchers 33o and 750 F. but they make their
Landscaping ------------------------------------------------ 8 are increasing their income by pro- most rapid growth in water of 50°
vlding trout fishing and related out-
Pond inlet ----------------------------------------------------- 9 to 650 F. Not only do trout make
Pond outlet --------------------------------------------------- 9 door recreation services for a fee.' their fastest growth within this tem-
Earthfill d ----------------------am --------------- ------ 10 If you have a trout pond, you, Perature range but they are less sus-
ceptible to parasites and diseases. t
Draining the pond ------------------------------------------ 10 your family, and friends can look
Protection from livestock ----------------------------- 10 orwar fd to many pleasurable hours is not likely that you will be able to
keep the water temperature in your
Water quality 11 of outdoor recreation.
Q tY ------- pond within this range all year un-
Waterweed control ------------------------------------------ 12 You may need assistance from a less you have a source of constant-
Fish die-offs ----------------------------------------------------- 12 biologist, a soil specialist, and an temperature water from a spring or
-----------------
en engineer in locating, designing, and
Points to remember --------------------------------------- 13 � g, well.
Fish and water laws --------------------------------------- 13 building a good pond. Your local
soil and water conservation district If the water In your pond is too
Farm for trout, you may want to
can arrange such assistance from the
stock bass, bluegills, catfish, or other
Soil Conservation Service (SCS).
warm-water fish. Suggestions are
Or you may wish to contact private
given for managing warm-water
This publication supersedes Formers' Bulletin 2154, Trout In Form and Ranch consultants. ponds in USDA Farmers' Bulletin
Bonds. 2250, Warm-Water Fishponds. Cop-
Geographical Range ies are available from your local soil
Ponds above 5,000 feet in the conservation district office, county
West are usually cold enough for agent, and the U.S. Department of
Issued November 1971 trout. In the fog belt of the Pacific Agriculture.
Washington, D.C. Approved for reprinting July 1976 coast, in the northern tier of states,
in the Appalachians, and in New Summer
For sale by the Superintendent of Documents,U.S.Government Printing Office In summer, the surface water of a
Washington,D.C.20102 'For more information, see USDA Leaf- pond is coldest just before sunrise.
Stock No.ooI-o00 oi533 s let 552, Trout Farming, Could Trout
Farming Be Profitable for You? If the water temperature at this time
i
RAINBOW Kinds of trout
BROAD REDDISH-VIOLET The rainbow trout is the most
LINE ON SIDES.
common choice for stocking ponds.
It thrives under a wide range of
MON
�X.,.•:�,t�'��� conditions and grows fast. Rainbows
7 are more widely available from
`' hatcheries than are other kinds of
/ /,/ ,�// / s// ///// L_. ` b qS //�1'•ww MANY IRREGULAR BLACK
SPOTS ON SIDES,BACK, trout.
DORSAL FIN,AND TAIL.
"�•�•... '�. % The brook trout is favored in
-°•••�:L parts of the East although rainbows
do as well and are widely available.
BROOK
Brook trout are a little easier to
- e
c.,°'"" C °•,.,,.• •'"""` -�—�,w• REDDISH AND YELLOWISH WAVYLINES ON BACK, catch than rainbows and sometimes
•r- -
' �c.°«."' SPOTS ON SIDES.\ 'T RSAL FIN,AND TAIL. spawn in springs or trickles that are
not suitable to the rainbow. Brook
trout are available from some hatch-
°'•' C7._�-- ;T'" eries in the West and from most
r.. hatcheries in the East.
In some sections of the country,
BELLY REDDISH-ORANGE WHITE BORDERS
IN FALL. ON FINS. both rainbow and brook trout are
stocked in the same pond for variety.
Whether you stock them singly or
Trout ponds are most 1"y to succ«d In shaded areas. Ponds, at any eleradon or in —7 CUTTHROAT together is a matter of choice.
latitude,led b7 cold aprhigs or cold-wab ell r was may be adtabie for front. The cutthroat trout has been little
URGE BLACK SPOTS,
used in ponds and is not widely
WIDELY SPACED. available from hatcheries.
is not more than 700 F., 6 inches Winter The brown trout is longer lived
below the surface, it is not likely to r and grows larger in many ponds but
rise more than 5 to 10 degrees dur-
In areas where-ponds are covered it is more cannibalistic and harder
with ice during winter, the water to catch than are other kinds of
ing the day. Trout die if the water o � \
temperature reaches 86° F. Trout temperature will be 33 F.just below ! `. trout. Brown trout are not recom-
L the ice and about39° F. on the bot- REDDISH SLASH MARK SIDES CLEAR OR NEARLY
may survive a few. flours exposure UNDER JAW. CLEAR OF SPOTS. mended for stocking ponds.
to high surface temperatures each tom. Water is most dense and there- Don't stock other kinds of fish
day but they usually seek cooler, fore heaviest at 390 F.Water warmer with trout—they compete with the
or oxv
or colder becomes less dense and trout f en and food. If your
deeper waters. o g
You can lower the water tem- tends to layer above water of 39 F. BROWN pond has 50 pounds of other kinds
perature and raise the oxygen level Little, if any, .fish growth takes of fish, it will likely have 50 pounds
by increasing the inflow of •fresh, place at these low temperatures. The F DINGOLOR OFTEN TO YELLOWISHH, FEW SPOTS ON TAIL. less of trout.
cool water and releasing the warm only way you can raise the water ON BELLY.\ If there are other fish in the pond,
water through a surface outlet gate. temperature enough to benefit trout drain it or use chemicals to kill all
Summer growth of trout is slower is to add a supply of water warmer fish before stocking with trout (see
in the cold water of mountain ponds than 50° F. ;, ' section, Removing Unwanted Fish,
than in the warmer water (50° to i' p• 6)
65°F.) at the lower elevations. Since Stocking the Pond
the coldest water is at the pond bot-the
AND SPOTS
SHUALOOUNDED BY LIGHIGH
TER Number to stock
tom during summer months, the To manage your trout pond best,
outflow from mountain ponds should you will need to know something Each kind of trout has special markings that The number of trout a pond will
be through a bottom-water outlet. about the kinds of trout you .can identify IL support depends on its surface area
This results in more favorable trout stock and how suitable they are for 3
growth. your pond.
2
Sport Fisheries and Wildlife of the ally. After mixing is completed,'pour
not volume), water quality, and death rate is high. Also, they seldom U.S. Department of the Interior or the fingerlings gently into the pond.
size of the fish. The carrying ca- spawn in ponds. For these reasons, the state fish and game agency pro-
pacity of a pond is limited and is it is best to fish your pond hard and vides fingerling trout for stocking Supplemental Feeding
measured in pounds of fish rather restock it with 4- to 5-inch finger- ponds. But some type of agreement
:han in numbers. Therefore, for any lings every year or two. regarding public access may be re- You can increase the carrying ca
riven level of management, a pond Some pond owners prefer to drain quired. pacity of your trout pond and get
will support more little fish than big their pond or use chemicals to kill steadier trout growth by supplement-
fish. all the fish at the end of the second ing natural foods with commercially
Ponds of average fertility usually season (see section, Removing Un- How to stock prepared ones. This means that you
produce enough natural food to sup wanted Fish, p. 6). This prevents Avoid stocking trout in water can produce 1,000 to 2,000 pounds
port about 100 pounds of trout per the few remaining large trout from above 650 F. of trout per acre annually, which
surface acre. On the basis of pro- eating any of the newly stocked Because trout are sensitive to sud- is 10 to 20 times more pounds of
duction records in the West, spring fingerlings. Cannibalism is not con- den changes in temperature, oxygen, trout, by supplemental feeding.
stocking a 1-acre pond with 500 sidered a major problem, however, carbon dioxide, and alkalinity or In theory, you could stock as
2- to 4-inch fingerlings will give you if the pond is fished hard and the acidity, you should never dump the many fish as you want if you give
7- or 8-inch (4 ounces) trout the population reduced so that there is fish directly into your pond from a them enough food. In practice, this
first year. Stocking at half that rate plenty of food. shipping container. doesn't work. Crowded fish are easy
in the fall should give you 10-inch To improve management and to Pond water should be added prey to diseases and parasites.
(8 ounces) trout. determine the best restocking rate slowly to the water in the shipping If you stock a 1-acre pond with
In the East, the standard fall for your pond, keep records of pre- container until it is within 6 F. of 2,000 2- to 4-inch fingerlings and
stocking rate is 600 3- to 4-inch vious stocking rates and of the the temperature of the pond water. provide enough supplemental feed to
fingerlings per acre. This stocking growth,harvest,and survival of your An easy way to do this is to pour grow 1,000 pounds of trout, you will
rate has resulted in 8-ounce trout trout. Someone in your local SCS out about half of the water from get %2-pound trout at the end of
:he first year. office can help you set up a simple the container. Then place the con- the first year. It takes about 1 pound
In general, 2-to 4-inch fingerlings record-keeping system and interpret tainer in the pond and pour pond of feed to produce a %2-pound trout
are more likely to survive to pan the records. water slowly into it. When it is full, under favorable growing conditions.
size than are 1-to 2-inch ones. pour out about half the mixture and Young trout may need to be fed
Whether your management goal Where to get trout repeat the process twice more. This g y
is more small fish or fewer large several times a day for fast growth.
g In most cooler parts of the United should take only 15 or 20 minutes. But don't overfeed. Feed only what
ones, fingerlings stocked in the fall States, you can buy trout for stock- If the trout show signs of distress
benefit from favorable growing con- ing from private fish hatcheries or such as turning on their sides, delay the fish will clean up promptly. If
ditions early the following spring. As from trout farmers. With air trans- further mixing until they act norm- any food remains 15 minutes after
a result, they reach pan size sooner. portation and other modern ship- feeding,it probably will not be eaten.
If winterkill or unavailability of ping methods, trout can be sent Decomposing food uses oxygen and
fingerlings in the fall is a problem, quickly and safely to almost any may cause loss of fish.
ou may be limited to spring stock- location. Hatchery personnel will of the water in your pond is above
'ng- make shipping arrangements or tell 65 F., it is not safe to do supple-
vou how to transport your fish. r mental feeding.
Restocking ;The more trout you order from a Dry, pelleted trout feeds, available
t� ., _
A pond stocked in fall will con- private hatchery, the lower the price from commercial trout feed dealers,
ry are easy use. Dealers furnish a
ain many small but usable trout the will be per thousand. You may be ,, , detailed feeding schedule based on
first year. If you fish these small fish able to pool your order with other y
uve ROOT fish size and water temperature.
saA°uc �' •'
ightly, you should catch some trout pond owners in your area to get a
.neighing 13/ to 2 pounds during lower price. 'XIv"� F 4 '" Harvesting the Fish Crop
.he second year. Your state fish and game agency g
Waiting another year or two for or the local Soil Conservation Serv- Before releasing trout fingerlings, pond With good management and no
i 2-pound trout to grow larger is ice office can give you a list of hatch- watin er should
shipping ddcontainerlowly to the it is within supplemental feeding, your pond
-tot worthwhile. Trout grow slowly eries that sell trout for stocking. s° F. of the temperature of the pond. should reach its carrying capacity
after they reach this size, and their In some states, the Bureau of
4
5
in pounds of fish within a year after aren't rising and you still want to can be corrected by compacting the smaller than one-third of a. surface
stocking. During the second year, fish, try fishing deep. soil on the pond bottom or by seal- acre generally will not support
trout make little growth unless the Don't be afraid to catch your ing the bottom with clay or other enough fish for food or sport without
pond is fished regularly. Remember, trout. Remember, you can restock. materials. supplemental feeding. You can have
each fish you take out allows the If you clean trout promptly after A location that is free from dan- some excellent trout fishing, how-
remaining ones to gain weight faster. catching,freeze them in water. They- ger of heavy runoff or flooding. If ever, in a pond as small as one-
To get the greatest return in num- will retain their fresh taste for sev- gg these requirements are met, a site for tenth of a surface acre if you follow
bers of pan-size trout and in pounds eral months. Make sure the fish are h your trout pond is a matter of a regular feeding schedule.
of fish, start fishing as soon as the completely encased in ice. choice. You may want your pond to A trout pond of one-half to 1
trout are 6 to 8 inches long. This Check regulations in your state on be part of your home beautification surface acre is an ideal size for a
will be about 6 to 10 months after size, bag limit, season, and methods plan and family outdoor recreation family. A pond of 1 to 3 acres will
you stock your pond with finger- of take that apply to private fish- area. Or you may want the pond in provide plenty of fishing for you and
lings. ponds. a remote section of your property. your neighbors and friends. Well-
Early in the second year, your designed trout ponds of 5, 10, and
trout should be 12 to 14 inches long Removing Unwanted Fish Planning the Pond even 20 acres are not uncommon.
and weigh about 1 pound. From It is a good idea to-keep wild fish A pond built and managed for If a large water area is needed,
then on, increase in length will be out of your pond. They compete for trout usually produces more fish than such as for fishing clubs, it is usually
slower but the fish will weigh more. oxygen and food and increase the a multipurpose pond. With some best to build several ponds of 1 to
Only a small percentage of the chances of diseases. Screening the changes, however, ponds built for 5 acres each. Several small ponds
trout you stock will live more than inlet pipe or running the water stockwater or irrigation-water stor- are easier to manage and produce
2 years. At the end of 3 years, just through a filter helps to keep them age or for other purposes can pro- more pounds of fish per surface acre
a few large trout will remain and out. vide good trout fishing. Increasing than one or two large ones.
their total weight will be far below If you have unwanted fish in your water depth by making the dam 3 Water supply is often the factor
the carrying capacity of your pond. pond, you may need to drain it be- or 4 feet higher may be all that is that limits pond size. Plan the size
Large trout are fun to catch but fore restocking. Or you may want needed. Or the outlet or inlet may of your pond for the average—not
growing big ones is not good pond to use a chemical to kill all the fish need redesigning for better water the maximum—supply of water.
management. Make every effort to if you are unable to drain the pond. control.
remove them. Before using chemicals, contact
Pan-size trout in ponds usually are your state fish and game agency for Size Depth
easy to catch. You may have the recommended kinds and amounts You can raise trout successfully in The depth of a trout pond de-
most fun fishing with flies, spinners, and for regulations that may apply. a pond of almost any size. Ponds pends largely on water,supply and
or other artificial lures. If you don't
have this equipment or casting skill, Selecting the Pond Site
you can catch trout with a bamboo
pole and bait. Angleworms are a In helping you select a suitable _
favorite bait. Grasshoppers, crickets site for your pond, SCS specialists ' EECtFAT10NNFA 'o �iI�KNG /�
�and salmon eggs are good too. give attention to these important
You are most likely to catch trout site requirements: $AN.
at times when they are feeding. In Dependable source of good qual- wMEe
•a6 NDND INE
warm weather, they feed mostly in ity water. To maintain safe pond- `°""°` ,d&EEnKGunET
the mornings and evenings. In early water temperature and adequate
spring or late fall when the water oxygen, your pond needs enough fin-
is cold, they usually feed during the flow to keep it full all year. But make "dmENCY Plumy
middle of a sunriv day. Winter fish- certain the inflow is free of pollut-
ing through a hole in the ice is ants and has an acidity-alkalinity DIVFRSIGN�_..EL'
MDED AREA
food sport. range that is safe for trout (see sec-
Here is a good rule—any time you tion, Water Quality, p. 11).
see trout rising to the surface is a Soil that holds water without ex- -
-ood time to go fishing. If trout cessive seepage. Some seepage losses A plan showing pond construction and suggested location of outdoor recreation facilities.
8 7
to a on the and surface. _- - -• i�u slopes abruptly gives less trouble and pro g P through the bottomiof the dam. The the spillway wider than is needed
vides a pleasant bank to fish from (bottom). Don't plant willows or other de- height of the trickle tube determines to handle floodwater, the outflow
8
9
climate. But you need to think about Landscaping
some of the uses you plan to make
With a little planning, you can
pond.
P �� ���'��� p�Y,l�l '( �'1',�• ,•
of your
make your trout pond and the recre-
'
As a general rule a depth of 3 or
ation area around it one of the most UJI �4,11 ,;. d� r�r•'" 1' a tt . •'°w `' + °k�'N�istu,+(;..
4 feet is about right for trout ponds attractive spots on ourproperty.
supplied by a constant flow of water. P y
PP
Some irrigation reservoirs used for Your first step is to sketch a plan
short-period storage are suited for showing the pond site and the loca-
tion of other outdoor recreation fa- - 1
trout if at least 3 feet of water is left cilities such as barbeque pit, picnicAle3_ =-
at all times to maintain the fish. tables, sandy wading beach, boat
If your pond is filled only during
dock, playground areas, and car
rainy seasons, you will need a water parking lot. Once these are located w V� f „"'
depth of at least 10 to 12 feet over make a plan to provide shade trees �4� "°y� uy ' u�1 u� �' �- ��'k
one-fourth or more of the pond area. / ,o IMw. Frf�! �"A. �`�
This depth is particularly important for the picnic area,shrubs for screen- � � � �� � �
ing the comfort station, and grass
in areas where trout die-off has oc- for play areas.
curred under ice cover or during hot Landscaping may be only a mat- with careful landscape Planning, Your trout pond can be one of the most attractive spots
weather.
ter of taking out some trees to open on Your property.
The shore of your pond should
up areas for recreation. But you may
slope as abruptly as possible to a 3- want to save a particularly attractive ciduous trees within 30 feet of the the level of the pond water. Few
foot water depth. A gently sloping tree or two around the pond, mak- pond. They will interfere with fish- trout, if any, -escape through this
shoreline results in shallow-water ing certain you leave plenty of space ing and shed leaves into the water. tube and it is not possible for fish
areas, which encourage growth of for casting. Decomposing leaves stain the water to enter the pond through it.
weeds and mosquitoes. Also a shal- Trees, stumps, brush, cattails, and and use oxygen. By placing the trickle tube inside
low shoreline is hard to fish from debris should be removed from the a riser pipe, you can direct the pond
and more fish are lost to wading pond site. Pond inlet outflow through either the surface
birds. Seed an area at least 30 feet back outlet gate or the bottom outlet pipe,
from the waterline to sod-forming If the water for your pond is sup- depending on whether you want to
grasses to help suppress weeds and plied by runoff or by a stream that discharge warm or cool water.
woody plants. Sod-forming grasses may have heavy flood flows, you With the surface outlet gate
1 should also be planted and main- should have controls to divert silt- closed, water from the pond enters
tained on the dam and in the emer- laden or surplus water, open ports at the bottom of the
riser. It then rises to the to of the
•� �, �. gency spillway. P
You will find that an irregularly Pond outlet trickle tube where it is discharged
shaped pond usually has a more through the outlet pipe. With the
pleasing appearance than a circular
Most well-designed trout ponds surface outlet gate open, water flows
have two outlets—a trickle tube for directly into the top of the trickle
or square-cornered pond.Site beautification Is especially im-
normal flows and an emergency spill- tube.
portant if your pond can be seen - way for flood flows. If you can con- You can place the trickle tube at
trol the water flowing into your the upstream toe of the dam or
from }•our home from the high- pond, however, you won't need an within the earthfill of the dam. The
way. Mixed clumps s of evergreen and emergency spillway. latter is better if the trickle tube
deciduous trees bordered by shrubs
C=34 needs protection from ice.
make a pleasing pattern and provide
Y=. cover for wildlife, including song- TRICKLE TUBE
birds. You may want to plant some A trickle tube is usually enclosed EMERGENCY SPILLWAY
A gently sloping shore results in shallow• deciduous trees and shrubs so that in a vertical riser pipe and connects An emergency spillwa} is installed
water areas, which encourage growth of their fall colors reflect to full advan-
weeds and mosquitoes (top). A shore that P with the outlet 1 that runs at one end of the dam. If you build
slopes abruptly gives less trouble and pro to ge on the Pond surface. through the bottom of the dam. The the spillway wider than is needed
vides a pleasant bank to fish from (bottom). Don't plant willows or other de- height of the trickle tube determines to handle floodwater, the outflow
8
9
- water will be shallower and the cur- w"
rent slower. This reduces trout loss
SAFETY Ult�
during storm periods because trout
---- have less tendency to swim into 3 or z ,v, ►
G ESE RRiJ'E
4 inches of water than into deeperr
E �`,
wiNDWNEEI; - water. Never screen the emergency .
- •7 y�J,
WATER LEAL- URF�CE OUTLE.GATE /
_ - ,-- _ _ spillway. Screened spillways clog _ i
-_-=_-_____-- `___ __�""_ _—_--- -- with debris and endanger the dam.
R-==-=___-_ wRFACF OUTLET GATE - - ----- -- ---- .\ , -
___ RISER ENCLOSING TRICKLE NRF. sees. % •F •• _
_ ____________ __ ___________ ________ _ •bMt
__-________- _______= Earthfill dam
- _E ---
-
OUTLET ryPE
_ Sound design and construction of T(: _
wy�
_=___. s_ =========_=___==_=== the earthfill dam prevents leakages
FEE _—=pS SK_ ------- __ ..L'4 .,i>5 A �: n€ IorE9r�v *ouryEy
_________ frequent repair,and loss of the pond. v' x
___""<__'_'--_ Est _ q ) roesnrF'n ,y hvd u"n k � '� -w,
__ =_== You can get engineering help `�
-- Y 1.-
____ Er OPEN IORTS -- ___ '�4 f:1 'F r `
- _ _ �---- from the Soil Conservation Service- --- FOR TER -----
_ _—__ Leo _T_ rEP ? ".
---------- - - ---- through your local soil conservation
OUTLFTPIIEO Cross section of an earthfill dam showing surface and bottom water outlet control system.
district. Or you can consult a private
POND OTT CONCRETE BASF a
a � engineer. Either can help you design
and build a dam suited to your soil, unsanitary for recreation use. If you Sewage can .cause low oxygen,
topography, and water supply. need stock water, you can pipe it slime growth, and a foul, odor in
Trickle tube designed to allow outflow from to a tank outside the fenced pond. your trout pond. Sewage also can
either the surface or bottom of the pond. be a hazard to human health. Sedi-
Direction of flow Is shown through bat Draining the Pond
uali Water ment can destroy pond by filling
outlet pipe with surface outlet gate doted. Q
Some states require that all im- it. Minute amounts of most insecti-
� � pounded waters have some means of Good-quality water is important cides can kill the trout.
_77A complete drainage. Whether or not for successful trout-pond manage- Water from springs or wells fre-
�•,NANDWNEEL �=
_ { the law requires a drainage outlet, ment. The quality of pond water is quently is low in oxygen and may
—T L„FE, SMACEOLI7LETw1E — .T:::'- it is a good idea to have one. You subject to constant physical and
-�' 't—— - Ss "" �'.s- can release foul water from the pond chemical changes that may affect ---T- - ---�=$
bottom and lower the water level trout. Some important changes re-
` ` suit from seasonal or daily variances
W,;- from time to time to repair struc- -
tures and control weeds. Also, drain- in air temperature. Other significant
changes
.. ,.:,:�._�,:.:,a-..-_ _- • :.-:,sees . m the pond may be the easiest way nges result from decomposition
50
g Po Y Y
to harvest a large number of troutorganic �<. �;�'�•�::a'%�.-�: :. 2"-
�:. of matter in th water, �� .
ge er sud-
d
''� '-`°� •• ° ,.�.� or remove unwanted fish.
en rainstorms pollutants, and even
.,:�:-�f!>;Y'^o.-%{��-'=:`::'z,}.''':1�:^:.;.r, -- a•;?c_,,._r�'' �Si'"1:"i�.L......+;-L 'c�;:.s,..w.,gee..,,✓:�a:�"scw�.:nN>,.:"`+��`>w�-=Y':aua'!a>;ii
The best wayto drain your and shade from a summer cloud cover.
} P
is through a gate valve located at Understanding the water-quality
g e e outlet
the junction of the pipe and needs of trout will help you manage
•. .:Asa - -_a � �'t��:>�= .
��> :-=: __ zu the trickle tube. your pond better.
_ _,.. ::
------ --- A+ CUTLET PIPE--r Water flowing into a trout pond
• •¢ ^;GATE VALVE ---- �T
CON=BETE EASE. Protection from Livestock must have an oxygen content of at
least 5 parts per million (ppm). It
A. As a rule,a pond should be fenced must be free of sewage, sediment, T
V, �t =`:`t� if livestock are present. Trampling harmful gases, and other pollutants.
can damage earthfill dams and and
g P An acidity-alkalinity range of pH 6
If the trickle tube needs protection from ice, shorelines. Also livestock may keep to 8 is preferable, although trout '
It should he installed within the earthfill the water muddy. Ponds used for may survive a range as low as pH More trout escape through the swifly mov-
dam.Direction of flow is shown through bot- livestock water provide poor fishing ing deeper water of a narrow spillway
P P g 4.5 to as hi h as 10 if the chan ater of a tom outlet pipe with surface outlet gals g g than through the more shallow water of a
closed. and usually are too unattractive and is not too abrupt.P wide spillway (bottom).
10 11
contain carbon dioxide or other Fish Die-offs Points to Remember 4 c
harmful gases. Running the water Fish die-offs most commonlyare
over rocks or baffles removes carbon 1. Build the pond that fits your concentrations, kill fish. Do not
caused by lack of oxygen i the needs and that is right for your wash spray equipment at the
dioxide and some other gases. This g
water. They may occur any time of
exposes the water to air and adds soil, water supply, and climate. pond.
oxygen. You should never let water the year but are most common dur- 2. A good small pond gives more 10. Start fishing as soon as our
containing hydrogen sulfide or other ing summer and winter. y g trout reach pan size, don't let hem
satisfaction than an inferior large
harmful gases flow into your pond. In summer, rapid decomposition pond.
Bottom waters frequently contain of dead waterweeds may use up the 3. Have as little water as pos- die of old age.
harmful gases and too little oxygen oxygen after 2 or 3 days of dark, 0 11. Improve management by
sible that is less than 3 feet deep.
for fish. You can improve this by cloudy weather. The same thing can keeping a record of stocking rate,
draining, the foul water from the happen if the weather is hot and 4. Prevent or control water- growth, harvest, and survival of
and bottom regularly ro- still. If you notice trout coming to weeds.
p and b y p ' y 5. Run no more water through your trout.
viding for some inflow of fresh the surface in early morning and 12. Add fresh water immedi-
water. Removal of bottom water is gasping for air, turn freshwater into the pond than is necessary to
particularly important in winter and the pond immediately. maintain correct water level, sting you see many fish swim-
during hot summer months when Some pond owners add oxygen proper temperature, and adequate ming sear the pond's surface. It is
fish die-off is most likely to occur. and lower the water temperature by oxygen. usually a sign they need oxygen.
pumping water from the pond and S. Be sure your pond is free of This may happen on hot still days,
Waterweed Control returning it-through sprinkler heads. other fish before stocking trout. on cloudy days, or if the water
Also, you can buy special aerators 1 7. Restock in the fall at least level is too low.
Without control, waterweeds may for this purpose. every second year for maximum 13. Plan for a drainpipe in your
become abundant and interfere If ice and snow cover the pond production. pond. It permits easy draining for
with fishing and other recreation. for a month or more, winterkill of 8. Keep the bank and shore free fish removal and water-quality
When dead waterweeds decom- trout may result from lack of oxy- of tall weeds and brush so that control.
pose, they use oxygen. This is one gen or from toxic gases. You can fishing will be a pleasure. 14. Provide some inflow of wa-
of the main causes of summer die- reduce or eliminate winterkill by—
off and winterkill of trout. 9. Avoid using insecticides on ter during winter,if possible. This
Reducing aquatic vegetation be- the watershed or near the pond. is the surest way to prevent win-
The best way to avoid problems Y p
with waterweeds is to prevent or fore winter ice forms.Vegetation upde- Most insecticides, even in minute terkill.
control their growth. This is not an composing under the ice uses up
easy job, and you may' find that oxygen and releases harmful gases.
control methods are limited. Providing some inflow of water
Preventing and controlling water- during winter-'This is the surest way
weeds begins with design and con- to provide oxygen. If you have a FISH AND WATER LAWS
struction of a pond. You will find pump, run it a few hours each week
that the shallower the water, the to break the ice loose from the shore-
greater the waterweed growth. line. The pipe from the pump must Laws and regulations for private fishponds vary from
Therefore, build your pond deep enter the water under the ice. state to state. Check with your state fish and game
enough and make the shore slope Draining gas-laden bottom waters agency about those that may affect your operation.Also,
abruptly. Also fill in shallow areas from the pond. If you have a con- state laws on water storage vary greatly. Your.state
and marshy spots to help prevent stant flow of water from a bottom engineer or water authority can advise you on this.
waterweeds from getting started. outlet pipe, foul waters will not ac-
(See section, Planning the Pond, cumulate. Bottom water containing
p. 7). toxic gases is dark colored and smells
Established waterweeds in cold- strongly of hydrogen sulfide (rotten-
water ponds can be controlled by egg smell) as it is discharged from U.S.GOVERNMENT PMrMXG OMCE:19R 0-247-96s
mowing or pulling by hand. the pond.
13
12
TOPOGRAPHIC- LAYOUT F
DART -'HILL EST
PREPARED FOR
DART HILL REALTY,
SOUTH WINDSOR, CONNE
"Z F 1. CONTOUR IHTEIN41_
c,P.
1 _
i A �/� 1
7�
0
9 ,
�J
I
vt�u ep r.Ll
U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Fish and Wildlife Enhancement
4 t '? 4e �
c,, S P.O. Box 307 (401)0170
r r Charlestown, RI (401) 364 0170 Fax
� R7
At" T66 (eift
a Q
AREA TOPOGRAPHIC
Imo_
I
CLIFFWOOD
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rjPpC'E� POND
PPG�I
Q 3.94 _—
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W.
Ta k t , SITEa-
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5L bstation - 'I.
w •V Y
1 y lux N OC
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ICI ICI ,. ��� ` � � )� �•.4` \� � � � �
AREA TOPOGRAPHIC MAP LOCATION
(SCALE I =20od
' t 29-22 t2`�1-23 t
I _ t
w
OPEN SPACE COMPUTATION
0
I-lax. lots al lowed ,
t `
--I Area = 109. 50 acres:
CLIFFWOOD _ Less - 10. 95 acres-
Less - 5. 83 acr.es-,c
92. 72 acres
u
7
LAKES MANAGEMENT SERVICES
7/92 INLA, ,.
Aquatic Analysis- (Algae analyses)
7460 S.W. Hunziler Rd. , Suite G
Portland Oregon 97223
(503) 620-5908
Aquatic Control Technology Inc. (Applied Lake Management
6 Maple Street Services)
Northborough, MA 01532
(508.) 393-8846
Aqua Scape Environmental Services (Contract Weed
3 High Lake Dr. Harvesting)
Bethel, CT 06801
(20.3) 730-8135
Atlantic Environmental Services (Consultant Services)
Loomis Road
Colchester, CT 06415
(203) 267-6631
Baystate Environmental Consultants, Inc. (Consultant Services)
296 North Main Street
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
(413) 525-3822
Benson Environmental (Consultant Services)
9 Old Purdy Station
Newtown, CT 06470
(203) 270-8012
Cedar Island Marina (Contract Dredging)
P. 0. Box 181
Clinton, CT 669-8681
669-8681
Coastal Environmental Services Inc. (Consultant Services)
Stephen J. .Souza, Ph. D.
909 State Road
Princeton, NJ 08540
(609) 683-0111
Columbia Environmental Laboratory (Lake Water Analysis)
2 Lakeview Park West
Columbia, CT. 06237
228-0329
Custom Earthworks (Excavation & Drainage)
53 Mountain Lake Road
New Preston, CT. 06777
(203) 868-9936
r
u
2
DeLeuw Cather (Consultant Services)
290 Roberts Street
East Hartford, CT 06118
(203) 282-4415
Diversified Pest Management Inc. (Applied Lake Management
Jerry Walden Services)
231 West Main St.
Chester, CT. 06412
(203) 526-2277
Diving Services Inc. (Consultant Services)
P. O. Box 784
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
(203) 388-1715
Ecological Consulting Services (Consultant Services)
Eric Tolonen Ph.D.
P. 0. Box 8417
New Haven, CT 06530
(203) 468-0771
Ecoscience Laboratory (Lake Water Analysis)
490 Main Street
Norwich, CT. 06360
(203) 889-8104
Ecosystem Consulting Service, Inc. (Consultant Services)
430 Talcott Hill Road
_ . Robert Kortman, Ph.D.
Coventry, CT 06238
(203) 742-0744
Environmental Consultants (Consultant Services)
Lillian G. Harter, Ph.D.
P.O Box 33
Marlborough, CT 06447
(203) 295-0013
Enviro Graphics (Computerized Mapping
Sandy Prisloe Services and Geographic
P.O. Box 70 Analyses)
Chester, CT 06412
(203) 526-4472
Enviro-Tech Consultants (Consultant Services)
Michael G. Shaefer
554 Liberty Highway, Unit 2, Colonial Plaza
Putnam, CT 06260
(203) 928-1815
Environmental Planning Services (Consultant Services)
Michael Klein
344 West Hill Rd.,
}
ti
3
New Hartford, CT. 06057
(203) 379-1722
Fugro-McClelland (Consultant Services)
6 Maple St.
P.O. Box 780
Northborough, MA 01532
(508) 393-8558
(Fugro-McClelland Danbury Office)
457 Main St. Suite 4C
Danbury, CT 06811
(203) 743-6760
Fuss & O'Neill (Consultant Services)
146 Hartford Road
Manchester, CT 06040
(203) 646-2469
Gagliarducci Construction (Contract Dredging and
Springfield, MA Construction Services),
(413) 543-6978
General Environmental Systems, Inc. (Lake Aeration Systems)
P.O. Box 469
5205 Saddle Brook Rd.
Oak Ridge, N.C.27310
(919) 643-1008
Hooker Company (Hydroraking Services)
68 Williams Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 442-3810
(413) 447-7989
John W. Deering Inc. (Pond Dredging)
26 Winthrop Road
P. 0. Box 250
Bethel, CT 06801
(203) 748-1378
Land-Tech Consultants, Inc. (Consultant Services)
Playhouse Corner, Suite 205, 77 Main St. N.
Southbury, CT 06488
(203) 264 8300
Lycott Environmental Research Co. (Consultant Services)
600 Charlton St.
Southbridge, MA 01550
(508) 765-0101
Maguire Group Inc. (Consultant Services)
One Court St.
New Britain, Ct'. 06051
(203) 224-9141
H•
4
Malcolm Pirnie (Consultant Services)
2 Corporate Park Dr.
P.O. Box 751
White Plains, NY 10602-0751
(914)-641-2679
Marine and Freshwater Research Service (Consultant Services)
Baillie, Priscilla W. , Ph. D.
276 State St.
Guilford, CT 06437
(203) 453-2379
Metcalf & Eddy (Consultant Services)
1 Research Parkway
Meriden, CT 06450
(203) 630-1735
Nazzaro Inc. (Pond Dredging)
P.O. Box 509
Georgetown, Ct. 06829
(203) 544-9347
Normandeau Associates, Inc. (Consultant Services)
45 Wintonbury Ave. , Suite 6
Bloomfield, CT 06002
(203) 286-4214
Phyco Tech (Algae Analyses)
1632 Pheasant Run
Baroda, MI 49101
(616) 422-2400
RPM Systems, Inc. (Consultant Services)
938 Chapel St.
New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 776-2358
Wengell, McDonnell and Costello (Consultant Services)
630 Oakwood Ave. , Suite 450
West Harford, CT. 06110
(203) 953-9624
1 `
f
�►u� `s »92
LAKES MANAGEMENT SERVICES
South. Windsor
7/92 INLAND WETLANDS 46ENCYI
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Aquatic Analysis (Algae analyses)
7460 S.W. Hunziler Rd. , Suite G
Portland Oregon 97223
(503) 620-5908
Aquatic Control Technology Inc. (Applied Lake Management
6 Maple Street Services)
Northborough, MA 01532
(508) 393-8846
Aqua Scape Environmental Services (Contract Weed
3 High Lake Dr. Harvesting)
Bethel, CT 06801
(203) 730-8135
Atlantic Environmental Services (Consultant Services)
Loomis Road
Colchester, CT 06415
(203) 267-6631
Baystate Environmental Consultants, Inc. (Consultant Services)
296 North Main Street
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
(413) 525-3822
Benson Environmental (Consultant Services)
9 Old Purdy Station
Newtown, CT 06470
(203) 270-8012
Cedar Island Marina (Contract Dredging)
P. 0 Box 181
Clinton, CT 669-8681
669-8681
Coastal Environmental Services Inc. (Consultant Services)
Stephen J. .Souza, Ph. D.
909 State Road
Princeton, NJ 08540
(609) 683-0111
Columbia Environmental Laboratory (Lake Water Analysis)
2 Lakeview Park West
Columbia, CT. 06237
228-0329 -
Custom Earthworks (Excavation & Drainage)
53 Mountain Lake Road
New Preston, CT 06777
(203) 868-9936
r
2
DeLeuw Cather (Consultant Services)
290 Roberts Street
East Hartford, CT 06118
(203) 282-4415
Diversified Pest Management Inc. (Applied Lake Management
Jerry Walden Services)
231 West Main St.
Chester, CT. 06412
(203) 526-2277
Diving Services Inc. (Consultant Services)
P. 0. Box 784
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
(203) 388-1715
Ecological Consulting Services (Consultant Services)
Eric Tolonen Ph.D.
P. 0. Box 8417
New Haven, CT 0653.0
(203) 468-0771
Ecoscience Laboratory (Lake Water Analysis)
490 Main Street
Norwich, CT. 06360
(203) 889-8104
Ecosystem Consulting Service, Inc. (Consultant Services)
430 Talcott Hill Road
Robert Kortman, Ph.D.
Coventry, CT 06238
(203) 742-0744
Environmental Consultants (Consultant Services)
Lillian G. Harter, Ph.D.
P.O Box 33
Marlborough, CT 06447
(203) 295-0013
Enviro Graphics (Computerized Mapping
Sandy Prisloe Services and Geographic
P.O. Box 70 Analyses)
Chester, CT 06412
(203) 526-4472
Enviro-Tech Consultants (Consultant Services)
Michael G. Shaefer
554 Liberty Highway, Unit 2, Colonial Plaza
Putnam, CT 06260
(203) 928-1815
Environmental Planning Services (Consultant Services)
Michael Klein
344 West Hill Rd.p
3
New Hartford, CT. 06057
(203) 379-1722
Fugro-McClelland (Consultant Services)
6 Maple St.
P.O. Box 780
Northborough, MA 01532
(508) 393-8558
(Fugro-McClelland Danbury Office) y
457 Main St. Suite 4C
Danbury, CT 06811
(203) 743-6760
Fuss & O'Neill (Consultant Services)
146 Hartford Road
Manchester, CT 06040
(203) 646-2469
Gagliarducci Construction (Contract Dredging and
Springfield, MA Construction Services).
(413) 543-6978
General Environmental Systems, Inc. (Lake Aeration Systems)
P.O. Box 469
5205 Saddle Brook Rd.
Oak Ridge, N.C.27310
(919) 643-1008
Hooker Company (Hydroraking Services)
68 Williams Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 442-3810
(413) 447-7989
John W. Deering Inc. (Pond Dredging)
26 Winthrop Road
P. 0. Box 250
Bethel, CT 06801
(203) 748-1378
Land-Tech Consultants, Inc. (Consultant Services)
Playhouse Corner, Suite 205, 77 Main St. N.
Southbury, CT 06488
(203) 264 8300
Lycott Environmental Research Co. (Consultant Services)
600 Charlton St.
Southbridge, MA 01550
(508) 765-0101
Maguire Group Inc. (Consultant Services)
One Court St.
New Britain, Ct. 06051
(203) 224-9141 s.
a
4
Malcolm Pirnie (Consultant Services)
2 Corporate Park Dr.
P.O. Box 751
White Plains, NY 10602-0751
(914)-641-2679
Marine and Freshwater Research Service (Consultant Services)
Baillie, Priscilla W. , Ph. D.
276 State St.
Guilford, CT 06437 .
(203) 453-2379
Metcalf & Eddy (Consultant Services)
1 Research Parkway
Meriden, CT 06450
(203) 630-1735
Nazzaro Inca (Pond Dredging)
P.O. Box 509
Georgetown, Ct. 06829
(203) 544-9347
Normandeau Associates, Inc. (Consultant Services)
45 Wintonbury Ave. , Suite 6
Bloomfield, CT 06002
(203) 286-4214
Phyco Tech (Algae Analyses)
1632 Pheasant Run
Baroda, MI 49101
(616) 422-2400
RPM Systems, Inc. (Consultant Services)
938 Chapel St.
New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 776-2358
Wengell, McDonnell and Costello (Consultant Services)
630 Oakwood Ave. , Suite 450
West Harford, CT. 06110
(203) 953-9624
,A .
A WATERSHED MANAGEMENT GUIDE
FOR CONNECTICUT LAKES
� l
JUL I J 1992
South Windsor
INLAND WETLANDS AGENCY/
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
BUREAU OF WATER MANAGEMENT
Revised__1991 _ _
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FORWARD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
THE LAKE AND ITS WATERSHED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
EUTROPHICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The Process of Eutrophication (2); Trophic States (3); Artificial Lakes
and Ponds (4); Problems Associated With Eutrophication (4); Limiting
Nutrients (5); Sources Of Pollution, Point and Non Point (6)
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Wetlands Protection (7); Septic Systems (8); Soil Erosion (10);
Agriculture (12); Lawn and Garden Fertilizers (13); Yard and Garden
Vegetation Disposal (13); Urban Runoff (13); Car Washes (15);
Waterfowl (15); Household Pets (16); Lake Sediments (16);
Recreational Beaches (17); Woodland and Timber Harvesting (17)
REFERENCES . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
WATERSHED RESOURCE MAPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Lake Watershed Boundary Map (19); Detailed Soils Group Map (19);
Wetlands Maps (19); Flood Zone Maps (20); Land Use Maps (20);
Open Space Maps (20)
RESOURCE AGENCIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
State and Federal (22); Regional Planning Agencies In Connecticut
(24); County Offices (26)
CONNECTICUT LAKE TROPHIC CONDITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 27
Y
FORWARD
Connecticut's lakes and ponds are important natural resources used
intensively for swimming, fishing, boating, and many other forms of recreation.
Lakes and ponds add diversity and aesthetic interest to the landscape and
contribute immeasurably to the enjoyment of daily life in lakeside communities.
Lakes also have considerable economic importance. Money spent in the
pursuit of recreation and enhanced nearby property values augment local tax
revenus and economies.
All lakes and ponds undergo an aging process known as eutrophication,
which eventually causes a decline in recreational utility and aesthetic appeal.
Eutrophication occurs naturally as a slowly paced evolutionary process;
however, the rate of eutrophication may be greatly accelerated when lands
around the lake are used for housing, roadways, agriculture, and other human
pursuits. This man-induced condition is known as cultural eutrophication.
Cultural eutrophication can be controlled and managed through
awareness, effort, and commitment. Every lake and pond in Connecticut can
benefit from 'preservation' oriented management to slow the eutrophication
process and prolong the useful life of the waterbody. Many lakes and ponds
also need "restoration" oriented management to correct or reverse undesirable
conditions brought about in the absence of proper management in the post.
This watershed management guide was prepared to assist concerned
citizens and associations in their understanding of eutrophication and the
principles of managing cultural eutrophication. This guide provides basic
information which can assist the public in working more effectively with
government agencies and businesses to protect and improve Connecticut's
lakes.
1
THE LAKE AND ITS WATERSHED
A lake's watershed is its drainage area or drainage basin. The
watershed consists of all land areas that drain directly into the lake and all
land areas that drain to watercourses that flow to the lake. Lakes constantly
receive materials from their watersheds, materials carried by tributary streams,
groundwater, and overland flow. Dissolved substances and suspended
particles entering the .lake from the. watershed greatly influence trophic
conditions. Water entering the lake carries nutrients, fertilizing the lake and
promoting the growth of aquatic plants and algae. Water also carries
particulate matter which may settle to the lake bottom as sediments,
decreasing lake depth and depleting oxygen in overlying lake waters.
The quality and quantity of transported materials relates back to
conditions at the source, the watershed lands. Watershed characteristics such
as topography, soil fertility, soil erodibility, vegetation, and land use practices
exert a great influence on the quality of the water entering the lake, and
therefore on the lake itself. Identifying and controlling existing and potential
watershed conditions and activities in order to reduce inputs of nutrients and
sediments to the lake is the goal of watershed management.
Every lake can benefit from watershed mangement, rggardless of the
existing water quality conditions. High quality lakes benefit through
preservation of superior quality, while lakes with impaired water quality benefit
from the slowing of the eutrophication process and the enhancement of
restoration measures within the lake. Watershed management provides the
foundation for all lake preservation and lake restoration programs.
EUTROPHICATION
The Process of Eutrophication
As eutrophication advances, many lake characteristics undergo dramatic
changes. Algae blooms increase in frequency, intensity, and duration.
Sediments accumulate, shoal areas develop, and the lake becomes shallower.
Beds of aquatic plants become dense and more extensive. The dissolved
oxygen content of bottom waters declines, and some fish populations may
disappear.
As these conditions develop, recreational opportunities become limited,
then seriously impaired. During the latter stages of the eutrophication process,
the waterbody evolves to a wetland - a swamp, marsh, or bog - and former
recreational uses are no longer possible.
2
The rate at which a lake receives nutrients and sediments from its
watershed determines the rate of eutrophication. Under natural conditions, a
forested watershed contributes minimal amounts of nutrients and sediments
and it takes many centuries for a lake to change in appearance.
Eutrophication accelerates in lake watersheds disturbed by man because
development and use of watershed lands inevitably results in greater nutrient
and sediment transport. If nutrients and sediments entering the lake from
manmade sources are not controlled, severe lake eutrophication can occur in
a very short time, a few decades or less.
Increased inputs of plant nutrients, especially phosphorus and nitrogen,
support increases in the growth of algae and aquatic plants. Increased inputs
of sediment result in the loss of depth and volume in the lake, and may cause
a general increase in the turbidity of lake water. Sediment accumulations also
form shoals, expanding habitat for aquatic plants. Decomposition of organic
matter in the sediments can deplete dissolved oxygen levels, impairing the
health of fish and other aquatic animals.
Trophic States
The three basic states of eutrophication are called oligotrophic,
mesotrophic, and eutrophic. Oiigotrophic refers to lakes in the early phases of
the eutrophication process; mesotrophic refers to lakes in the middle phases;
eutrophic refers to lakes in the later phases. Under natural conditions, a lake
slowly evolves from the oligotrophic state through the mesotrophic state to the
eutrophic state.
A distinct set of lake conditions characterizes each trophic state.
Oiigotrophic lakes are deep, clear, infertile lakes, sparsely populated by algae
and aquatic plants. Bottom waters are well oxygenated and sediment
accumulations are negligible. These characteristics make oligotrophic lakes
prime recreational lakes. Eutrophic lakes are the opposite. Eutrophic lakes are
relatively shallow lakes with fertile, turbid waters. They have dense blooms of
algae and/or dense beds of aquatic plants, poorly oxygenated bottom waters,
and substantial sediment accumulations. These characteristics seriously limit
recreational uses. Mesotrophic lakes exhibit intermediate conditions.
Mesotrophic lakes are good recreational lakes, but usually exhibit some
incipient water quality degradation and use impairment.
Studies of Connecticut lakes have resulted in the development of a
formal classification system defining trophic states on the basis of
measurements of technical water quality parameters. Six trophic categories
have been defined. The oligotrophic state is one category. The mesotrophic
state is divided into three subcategories - early mesotrophic, mesotrophic, and
late mesotrophic. Eutrophic lakes are differentiated into two distinct trophic
states - eutrophic and highly eutrophic.
3
,
These classification categories can be used for comparing the water
quality of different lakes, establishing benchmarks for short and long term trend
comparisons, and estimating the probable level of management required to
meet lake use objectives. A list of Connecticut lakes classified according to
trophic state by DEP is presented on pages 25-28 of this publication.
The classification of a lake as eutrophic does not indicate that it is
unsuitable or undesirable for all types of recreation, nor should it discourage
efforts to manage the lake as a valuable resource. Similarly, the classification
of a lake as oligotrophic should not engender complacency towards
management. In both instances, lake water quality can be enhanced by
better managment of the lake watershed area.
Artificial Lakes and Ponds
Many lakes and ponds in Connecticut are manmade, formed by
construction of a dam across a stream or wetland, or excavation of a basin
in a wetland. Many natural lakes and ponds also have been artificially
deepened and enlarged by construction of a dam at the outlet. In these
lakes, water covers wetland soils or upland terrestrial soils which had previously
supported productive vegetation. The new lake bottom is already fertile.
Although artificial lakes undergo eutrophication by the same general
processes as natural lakes, they usually have a different starting point. Most
artifical .lakes do not start out as oligotrophic lakes. Artificial lakes are often
either mesotrophic' or eutrophic at the time of creation, due to the original
fertility of flooded wetland and upland areas. Improvement of trophic
conditions in artificial lakes, and artificial lake areas, can be exceptionally
difficult because "restoration" may not involve the return to earlier lake water
quality conditions, but rather attempts to create conditions which never
existed.
Problems Associated With Eutrophication
Algae Blooms - Algae are vital components of the lake ecosystem.
Algae, microscopic plants, serve as sources of food and energy for fish and
other lake organisms. Excessive algae growths, however, occur as "blooms"
which have a "pea soup" appearance and form scums and mats on the lake
surface. Algae blooms interfere with recreation and aesthetic enjoyment of a
lake and can also cause taste and odor problems in water and fish. When
blooms die off, the plant matter decomposes, depleting oxygen in lake waters.
Oxygen depletion from severe blooms can cause a fish kill. The regular
occurence of algae blooms indicates that phosphorus levels in the lake are
too high. _
4
Aquatic Weed Beds - Macrophytes are large aquatic plants which, like
algae, are vital components of a lake ecosystem. They provide cover for fish
and food for wildlife. Excessive macrophyte growth appears as nuisance weed
beds which can limit swimming, fishing, boating and aesthetic appreciation.
Decomposition of dead plant matter may deplete oxygen in lake waters,
which may cause fish kills. Shallow water conditions and high levels of nutrients
in either the lake water or the lake sediments promote the occurence of
extensive and dense weed beds.
Loss of Depth - The accumulation of sediments in a lake causes the loss
of water depth and the loss of lake volume. The reduction in depth can
encourage excessive macrophyte growth and can disrupt swimming, boating,
and other activities. Sediments can originate externally from the lake
watershed, or internally from decaying algae and weeds in the lake itself.
Dissolved Oxygen Depletion - Fish and other aquatic animals depend
on dissolved oxygen in lake water for respiration. Bacteria, fungii and other
microorganisms use oxygen while decomposing organic materials. Lakes
enriched with excessive amounts of organic materials, such as plant matter or
waterfowl droppings, may experience a decline in dissolved oxygen. The loss
of oxygen from deep cold lake waters can impair the health of trout and
salmon populations, especially in the summer months. The loss of oxygen from
shallow surface waters can stress warm water species such as bass and sunfish.
Severe dissolved.oxygen depletion can result in a fish kill and the loss of fish
populations.
Limiting Nutrients
In order for any form of life to grow and multiply, the basic building
blocks of life nutrients - must be available .in the environment. In a lake,
algae depend on nutrients in the water column to grow and multiply. The
larger rooted aquatic macrophytes may use nutrients in the water column,
although many also extract nutrients from lake sediments.
The term "limiting nutrient" refers to that particular nutrient in shortest
supply relative to the growth needs of an organism. When the limiting nutrient
becomes depleted, growth must stop even though other nutrients are still
available. Any increase in the supply of the limiting nutrient results in a
corresponding increase in growth. Conversely, any decrease in the supply of
the limiting nutrient results in a corresponding decrease in growth.
Consequently, the control of the growth of algae and aquatic plants in a lake
directly relates to the control of the supply of growth limiting nutrients.
L•
5
s
Phosphorus is the principal nutrient limiting the growth of algae in most
lakes and ponds in Connecticut. Phosphorus is usually present in relatively
scarce quantities in lake waters. Nitrogen, on the other hand, may be a
growth limiting nutrient for larger aquatic plants. Growth of Eurasian water
milfoil, a common nuisance weed in Connecticut lakes, appears to be
controlled by nitrogen levels in sediments.
To control lake eutrophication, phosphorus and nitrogen enrichment must
be controlled. Phosphorus and nitrogen may occur as dissolved forms in water
or in association with organic matter and sediments.
Sources of Pollution, Point and Non Point
Sources of pollution that contribute to lake degradation are divided into
two broad categories - point sources and non point sources. Point sources are
concentrated, localized discharges which enter a watercourse at a single
point,. usually a pipe. Point sources usually discharge effluent continually.
Wastewater treatment plant discharges are examples of point sources.
Point sources of pollution affect only a few lakes in Connecticut. These
lakes are impoundments on rivers receiving discharges from wastewater
treatment plants. Under state and federal water pollution control laws, the
potential impacts of point sources on lakes are controlled by conditions
imposed in wastewater discharge permits. Phosphorus levels and algae blooms
have been controlled in some Connecticut impoundments by permit
requirements for the removal of phosphorus at upstream treatment plants.
Non point sources are diffuse discharges, emanating from land areas in
the watershed, not entering a watercourse at any one single point. They
discharge intermittently, usually in association with precipitation and runoff
events. Non point sources of pollution affect the water quality of every lake
and pond in Connecticut, contributing nutrients, sediments, and organic matter
that accelerate eutrophication. A wide variety of non point sources,
associated with many types of land uses, impact lakes in Connecticut;
examples are stormwater runoff from a road, drainage from a cornfield, and
soil erosion from a construction site. Although the impact of any one individual
non point source may not noticeably effect a lake, the cumulative effect of
many non point sources in the watershed can be great.
The relative importance of various non point sources in a lake watershed
can be assessed by considering the size of the watershed. In small
watersheds, local sources of organic matter and nutrients such as septic
systems and runoff from lawns and gardens, may represent the primary
contributors of pollutants to the lake. In large watersheds, the contributions
from urban, silvicultural, and agricultural areas can be more significant than
those from lakeshore homes.
6
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
Best Management Practices, or "BMPs', are a variety of special land use
practices and structural measures used to control non point sources of
pollution. Best Management Practices are methods which have been found
to be the most effective, practical means for reducing the transport of
pollutants from watershed lands to watercourses.
Lake watershed management entails the use of BMPs to reduce the
transport of nutrients and sediments to lakes. Implementation of Best
Management Practices occurs primarily at the local level, through the efforts
of private property owners and local govemment. Some BMPs may be
implemented- on a voluntary basis, such as the proper application of lawn
fertilizers by a homeowner. Other BMPs may be implemented on a regulatory
basis, such as soil erosion controls required at a construction site by a town
permit in accordance with state laws.
Education is essential for effective lake watershed management. Lake
associations should become knowledgeable about BMPs and their
implementation and communicate this information to property owners and
town officials. Many lakes associations in Connecticut utilize letters, workshops,
and handbooks for this purpose. In addition, lake associations can promote
the use of BMPs by participating in local public meetings and commenting on
permit applications under review by town commissions.
The development and implementation of Best Management Practices is
generally referred to as non point source management. The 1987 DEP report
entitled 'Non Point Source Pollution: An Assessment and Management Plan"
provides an overview of the statewide non point source management program
in Connecticut and presents a general guide to pollutants, sources, impacted
resources, management goals and strategies, institutional roles, and
management practices. Lake and pond eutrophication is one of the many
non point source management issues addressed by the plan.
In general, the most important sources of non point pollution to
Connecticut's lakes are septic systems, erosion and sedimentation, agriculture,
lawns and gardens, and stormwater drainage systems. Other sources may
have local importance, including waterfowl, household pets, recreational
beaches, timber harvesting, and lake sediments.
Wetlands Protection - Protection of wetlands is a priority BMP for a lake
watershed management program. Wetlands serve as buffers between
terrestrial and aquatic environments. They protect lakes by moderating surface
water flow, moderating nutrient transport, and removing suspended sediments
and other contaminants from stormwater runoff.
7
During the spring and summer growing seasons, wetland plants remove
significant amounts of nutrients from overlying waters. During the fall and
winter, wetlands release nutrients as wetlands vegetation decays. In this way,
wetlands delay the transport of nutrients until after the growing season, when
they are unlikely to contribute to nuisance algae blooms and weed growths.
Wetlands also help control flooding and associated soil erosion. Wetlands
retain water during periods of high runoff and gradually release water at
moderate rates of flow. This flow regulation reduces flooding and erosion
which could otherwise contribute sediment and nutrients to a lake.
In order to preserve these valuable functions, wetlands must be
maintained in their natural state. Alteration or elimination of a wetland
reduces-the effectiveness of these buffering functions, ultimately contributing
to the degradation of a downstream lake.
Connecticut's Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act, Sections 22a-36
through 22a-45 of the General Statutes, protects wetlands by providing for the
regulation of activities in wetlands areas. Each town has a board -or
commission which administers a wetlands permit program to control the
impacts of man's activities on wetlands. The town wetlands agency is
responsible for utilizing its authorities to protect a lake when it acts on permit
applications for regulated activities in a lake watershed. This is particularly
important for wetlands contiguous to the lake or its tributary wdtercourses. The
Commissioner of Environmental Protection may intervene in municipal
proceedings for the purpose of the enforcement of the statute. A lake
watershed management program should include ongoing participation in the
town's wetland permit process. Lake association members should monitor
wetlands permit applications and provide commentary on proposed activities
impacting wetlands in the lake's watershed.
Septic Systems - Individual on-lot subsurface sewage disposal systems,
commonly referred to as septic systems, serve many homes on Connecticut
lakes. The basic components of a septic system include a house sewer, a
septic tank, a distribution system and a leaching field. Sewage is delivered to
the septic tank via the house sewer. In the septic tank, solids physically
separate from liquids (primary treatment). Heavy solids settle to form a sludge
blanket, light solids float to form a scum layer, The liquid from the septic tank
flows to the leaching system where soil bacteria decompose waste matter
(secondary treatment). After treatment in the leaching system, wastewater
effluents flow into the soils below the ground surface.
Best Managment Practices for septic systems include proper siting,
design, installation, operation, and maintenance. When functioning properly,
septic systems provide for the sanitary degradation of wastewaters into simple
chemical substances, including soluble phosphorus and nitrogen compounds.
8
C.
If not managed properly, a septic system can fail, resulting in the backflow of
wastewaters into the house, or the breakout of wastewaters on the surface of
the ground. A septic system failure is a public health hazard that demands
immediate correction, irrespective of any lake eutrophication concern.
However; eliminating the health threat has the added benefit of elimininating
the eutrophication threat.
Town health officials are responsible for identifying and correcting septic
system failures. The correction of individual or scattered failures in a residential
area can often be accomplished with on-site repairs. Correction of
widespread failures may require the preparation of a community wastewater
management plan. A lake association should notify town health officials about
suspected septic system failures, and should monitor the results of sanitary
investigations and subsequent corrective actions.
When seasonal cottages around a lake are converted to permanent
homes, town public health officials are responsible for evaluating the need for
septic system upgrades. Septic systems not expanded and upgraded when
a conversion occurs may not conform to minimum requirements of the state
Public Health Code, increasing the likelihood of failure. Local health officials
must evaluate the adequacy of septic systems serving converted cottages and
oversee the timely improvement of inadequate systems. Cottage conversions
are usually subject to local building permits and zoning approval, providing a
means for local authorities to require septic system upgrades.
Properly functioning septic systems require proper design and installation.
"Septic Systems Manual: A Guide to On-Site Subsurface Sewage Disposal for
Local Land-Use Officials" published by DEP in 1985 and available at DEP's Maps
and Publications, is a guide for local land use officials on the legal and
technical aspects of the design and installation of on-site sub'Jurface sewage
disposal systems. The manual provides a brief explanation of the actual
process of sewage treatment that takes place in a septic tank, leachfield and
surrounding soil. It is intended to enhance the knowledge of local officials and
provide for a more informed review of development proposals. This manual
should be consulted by local commissions when reviewing applications for
planning, zoning, and wetland permits which involve the installation of new
septic systems in the lake watershed.
Septic system BMPs should be followed by property owners in a lake
watershed. These BMPs involve proper operation and maintenance to prevent
premature failures of septic systems:
• Pump out septic tank solids on a regular basis. Sludge levels in the
septic tank should be checked every year and should be pumped
when sludge fills half of the tank. The usual frequency is 2 to 3
years for permanent homes and 5 to b years for seasonal cottages.
9
If solids are not removed from the tank, they will wash into and
clog the leachfield.
• Do not flush strong cleaning agents such as drain cleaner and
bleach into a septic system. . These chemicals may kill the
beneficial microorganisms needed to break down wastes.
• Do not use the septic system for disposal of kitchen wastes.
Ground up garbage from a kitchen sink garbage disposal can
overburden a septic tank and impair its function.
• Conserve water and give the septic system time to "rest" after
heavy use. This allows the septic system to work more efficiently. .
• Do not dispose of paint or other household chemicals in the septic
system. These chemicals can kill beneficial microorganisms in the
septic tank and may also contaminate ground water.
• Use nonphosphate laundry detergents. This practice can reduce
the amount of phosphorus passing through the septic system by 30
to 40 percent.
Soil Erosion - Soil erosion is the process by which the land's surface is
worn away by the action of wind, water, ice and gravity. In lake watersheds,
soil erosion by surface runoff of water and by shoreline wave action are
important concerns. Natural erosion occurs at a very slow and generally
uniform rate. However, disturbance of the land's surface by human activity
eliminates the protection provided by natural vegetation and exposes soils to
erosion. In addition, exposed soil can become compacted, significantly
reducing its infiltration capacity, resulting in greater volume and velocity of
runoff.
The severity of erosion and sedimentation is influenced by soil type, slope
of the land, type of vegetative cover, intensity and duration of precipitation
and proximity to a watercourse. Serious natural erosion can occur on land
with steep slopes, along streambanks and along lake shorelines. Common
manmade sites of erosion include construction sites, roadway embankments,
roadway drainage ditches, cultivated fields, and timber harvesting areas.
Construction site erosion can be particularly severe. Research has shown
that soil erosion from construction sites may be 10 to 100 times greater than
erosion from agricultural land of the some size, slope, and soil type. Because
the demand to develop lake watershed land is so high (especially land near
the lake), construction site erosion can play a major role in lake eutrophication.
10
Connecticut's Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act, Sections 22a-325 to
22a-329 of the General Statutes, provides for a statewide coordinated erosion
and sediment control plan for land being developed. Towns are required to
adopt planning and zoning regulations requiring erosion and sediment control
plans for disturbed areas greater than one-half acre in size. The town must
certify the technical adequacy of the plans and provide for the inspection of
installation of the control measures. The town may consult with the County Soil
and Water Conservation District for technical review of plans. Single family
dwellings which are not part of a subdivision of land are exempt from town
erosion and sediment control regulations by state statute, and cannot be
controlled by the town under the authority of state erosion and sediment
control laws.
Construction site erosion can be controlled by utilizing the BMPs
described in "Connecticut Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control,"
prepared by the Connecticut Council on Soil and Water Conservation. This
technical handbook assists government officials, developers, engineers,
contractors and others in minimizing erosion and sedimentation. Among the
erosion control topics discussed in detail are site planning; vegetative controls
such as seeding, sodding, and tree planting; non-structural controls such as hay
bale checks, mulching, land grading, and traffic control; and structural controls
such as diversions, riprap, and sediment basins. The effectiveness of erosion
controls for constructions sites in the watershed should be monitored. Any
observed incidents of turbidity or siltation in the lake or its tributary
watercourses should be reported to the town zoning enforcement officer for
inspection and follow-up corrective action.
Streambank erosion has an immediate and often severe impact on lake
water quality. Activities that disturb land surfaces should be avoided in these
areas. Several BMPs for streambanks are described in "Guidelines For Soil
Erosion and Sediment Control". Bank sloping, riprap, vegetation,jetties, fencing,
and removal of obstructions to stream flow are measures appropriate to
protect vulnerable streambank sites.
Maintaining naturally vegetated buffer strips along stream corridors, a
universal BMP, controls streambank erosion. Vegetated buffer strips protect the
soil and also intercept runoff, removing sediment and phosphorus. A lake
association should participate in review of applications for town wetlands and
zoning permits pertaining to proposed uses of streambank properties in a lake
watershed. Any permitted construction activities in streambank areas should
employ strict erosion and sediment controls.
Wave action can also erode shorelines. Lakefront .properties with
vulnerable shorelines should consider the following BMPs: maintaining
vegetated buffer strips, leaving rocks and boulders undisturbed, and employing
strict erosion and sediment controls for construction activities. Also, masonry
-- -retaining wails can be built to-absorb-the-shock of waves and-prevent-erosion.- - ---
11
4
4
"Guidelines For Soil Erosion and Sediment Control" should be referred to
for general guidance on the construction of retaining walls; professional
engineers, professional masons, and the town building inspector can provide
further guidance. In addition, leaving existing rocks in place along the shore
to diffuse wave action provides an effective measure against erosion.
Agriculture - In many lake watersheds, agricultural lands are potential
non point sources of sediments and nutrients. Sources of nutrients and
sediments associated with agriculture include croplands, grazing lands, feedlots,
animal wastes, and tree nurseries. BMPs for croplands include conservation
tillage, contour farming, contour striperopping, no till seeding, terracing,
vegetative buffers, winter cover crops, and specialized fertilizer application
procedures. Grazing land BMPs include terracing, fencing to protect wetlands
and watercourses, maintenance of natural waterways, and maintenance of
vegetative buffer strips. Feedlot BMPs include paving, stormwater diversion,
and runoff treatment. Animal waste BMPs include construction of storage
areas, diversion and treatment of stormwater, and specialized manure
spreading practices. Tree nursery BMPs include contour planting, cover crops,
and specialized fertilization procedures.
Several government agencies have programs to assist in the
implementation of agricultural BMPs. The USDA Soil Conservation Service, a
federal agency, provides technical assistance to farmers on planning and
implementing agricultural BMPs and developing "farm resources management
plans" for individual farms. The USDA Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation
Service, also a federal agency, assists in funding BMP projects undertaken by
the farmer. The University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension Service, a
state agency, provides information and education to farmers on the use of
pesticides and fertilizers. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, also
a state agency, performs BMP research and demonstration projects. The
County Soil and Water Conservation Districts serve as the vital communications
Link between government programs and the agricultural community.
A lake association can obtain information on the status of agricultural
BMPs in the watershed by consulting with the County Soil and Water
Conservation District and establish cooperative, working relationships with
District personnel, federal Soil Conservation Service personnel, and local farmers
in order to develop a strategy for the timely implementation of any agricultural
BMPs needed to protect lake water quality.
In 1991, the DEP prepared a report entitled "Manual of Best
Management Practices for Agriculture' for Connecticut's Aquifer Protection
Program. This manual contains detailed information on agricultural BMPs
needed to protect the quality of ground waters used as public drinking water
supplies. The manual contains information applicable to lake watershed
management programs.
12
w
Lawn and Garden Fertilizers - In residential areas, fertilizers are
commonly applied to lawns, home gardens, ornamental shrubs and trees to
promote plant growth. Fertilizers usually contain the plant nutrients nitrogen,
phosphorus and potassium. -In a lake watershed, these nutrients may be
transported to surface waters, encouraging aquatic plant growth in the lake
as well. This concern is most , important for shoreline properties because
proximity to the lake increases the likelihood that the fertilizers used around the
home may also fertilize the lake.
Residents in lake watersheds should be very judicial about the use of
fertilizers and should consider not using fertilizers at all. If fertilizers are to be
used, then the type of fertilizer should be matched to the specific needs of the
soil and the plants being grown. A fertilizer 'prescription' for the correct type
and amount of fertilizer can be obtained by having a soil sample analyzed by
the University of Connecticut soils laboratory. Their recommendations should
be followed carefully. Soil testing kits can be obtained from the UCONN
Extension Service office for a nominal fee.
The timing of fertilizer applications is also an important consideration.
Fertilizers should not be applied if heavy rain is forecast because nutrients can
be washed away by surface runoff and carried into the lake. Fertilizer
applications should also be avoided in the late summer and fall when active
plant growth has ended. Nutrients not captured by plants are likely to be
transported off the property during rainstorms.
Yard and Garden Vegetation Disposal - Leaves, grass clippings, and
other vegetative wastes from yard and garden maintenance are rich in
nutrients and organic matter. If discarded in a location where the material
may be washed into the lake, vegetation increases lake sedimentation and
releases plant nutrients upon decomposition. An important BMP is to compost
herbaceous wastes and recycle the composted matter as soil conditioner and
fertilizer. Composting sites should be located a safe distance away from the
lake shore, tributary watercourses, and stormwater drainage systems. Woody
wastes should be chipped and reused as landscaping mulch or disposed of in
an approved municipal brush disposal site.
Urban Runoff - Many types of water pollutants accumulate on
sidewalks, streets, driveways, parking lots, and other paved areas. For
example, leaves and branches, litter and trash, animal excrement, salt and
sand, and fluid leaks from motor vehicles all accumulate during periods of dry
weather. Additionally, wastes such as used motor oil, radiator fluid, grass
clippings, animal wastes, and car wash wastewater may be improperly
discarded down stormwater drains. (See the following information on Car
Washes.) Rainfall and snowmelt runoff easily transports these materials and
contaminates receiving watercourses with organic and inorganic nitrogen,
phosphorus, sediments, decomposable organic matter, hydrocarbons, heavy
metals, pathogenic bacteria and road salts.
13
r
Many BMPs can be implemented to manage urban runoff. The U.S..
Environmental Protection Agency publication 'Urban Targeting and BMP
Selection" presents an overview of BMPs for urban stormwater management.
BMPs are categorized as source controls, detention basins, infiltration basins,
and vegetative controls. Source controls include regulatory programs to
control litter, to prevent improper disposal or discharge of wastes in stormwater
systems, and to require removal of pet droppings from paved surfaces. Source
controls also involve maintenance of paved surfaces, including street sweeping,
parking lot sweeping, and repair of eroding pavement areas. Every lake
watershed area should employ source control BMPs.
Detention basins temporarily store and partially treat stormwater. Wet
ponds, dry ponds, and roadway catch basins are examples of detention basins
which remove heavy solids and, in some cases, floatable materials from
stormwater. Solids accumulations must be periodically removed from these
structures to maintain effective treatment capability. Routine cleanout of
catch basins by the appropriate public works authorities is an important BMP
in every lake watershed.
Infiltration basins intercept overland flow, allowing stormwater to seep into
the _ground. Maintainance of the filter medium prevents clogging of
accumulated pollutants. Vegetative controls include natural and artificial
wetlands, grassed swales, and filter strips. These controls provide for the
physical removal of solids, biological degradation of pollutants, and biological
uptake of nutrients. Preservation of wetlands in the lake watershed, in
accordance with Sections 22a-36 through 22a-45 of the General Statutes, is
an important BMP to manage urban runoff in many lake watersheds. (See
Wetlands Protection Section, page 7).
A comprehensive urban runoff plan should be developed for a lake
watershed, identifying and prioritizing measures appropriate for specific sources
of pollutants. Government programs to manage urban runoff are in the early
stages of development, and presently no regulatory and financial framework
addresses the needs of a comprehensive watershed plan. Lake associations
should seek to implement source controls and maintenance programs through
cooperation with local officials and private property owners.
Town planning and zoning regulations requiring stormwater runoff control
plans for proposed developments can be an effective means of implementing
urban runoff management for new sources. Stormwater control measures
should be incorporated into the site development plan so that the appropriate
urban runoff BMPs become an integral component of permitted land use
acivities at the site.
14
Car Washes - Direct discharges of soapy washwater from car washing
to any surface. waterbody, including lakes and their tributaries, should be
prevented. Washwaters can transport sand, oil, and phosphorus (from soaps
and detergents), degrading the water quality of the receiving waterbody.
Even non-phosphate "biodegradable' soaps should not be allowed to enter
surface waters directly as they can be toxic to aquatic organisms at low
concentrations and cause unsightly foaming.
f
Connecticut law requires that anyone generating vehicle washwater
discharges, regardless of volume or discharge location, first obtain a permit for
the discharge. This includes charity sponsored car washes. However, several
acceptable disposal options for vehicle washwaters generated by individuals
or charity car washes exist and are explained in the DEP's "Guidance for
Disposal of Vehicle Washwater" available from the Department of
Environmental Protection, Bureau of Water Management, Division of Engineering
and Enforcement, 165 Washington St., Hartford, CT 06106.
The first option is to wash cars in an area where all washwater enters a
municipal sanitary sewer for proper treatment. The second option, ,for
individual car washing only, is to wash cars in a grassy area large enough to
contain all washwater and then allow it to seep into the soil. Another option
for charity car washes is.to have a commercial car wash operator sponsor the
event.
Waterfowl - During the late 19701s, the utilization of lakes by large flocks
of Canada geese emerged as a lake eutrophication issue. At several lakes,
deterioration of 'summer water quality coincided with the unprecedented
occupancy by large numbers of geese the preceding fall/winter season. The
DEP has found that excrement from Canada geese can be a significant
source of enrichment of lake waters with phosphorus, nitrogen, and
decomposable organic matter.
Summer dissolved oxygen depletion and algae blooms are observed
effects of wintertime geese. At two Connecticut lakes experiencing large
winter flocks, the phosphorus input from the birds was estimated to be
equivalent to 50% to 70% of the annual phosphorus input from the lake
watershed. Similar concerns have been raised about gulls, although no formal
studies have been undertaken.
The presence of geese or gulls at a particular lake in any given year is
related to many factors, including regional weather patterns, local climatic
conditions, availability of food supplies, hunting pressure, and flock behavior
patterns. Some lakes do not attract large numbers of waterbirds, while others
experience high levels of use fairly regularly. Discouraging large flocks of
waterbirds on lakes where they contribute to eutrophication is advised.
15
k.
Methods to accomplish this depend on the individual lake size, type of
bird, proximity of human habitation, and available resources. Constructing
walls or planting a buffer strip of shrubs along the lake shoreline prohibits easy
access in and out of the water for the geese to feed on lawns, discouraging
geese from using the lake. Hunting may be an effective management
method, although hunting in urban and suburban areas is not a viable option.
Harrassment is another option for keeping nuisance waterfowl off lakes where
they pose a problem. Scarecrows and other foreign objects, automatic
exploders, flashing lights, balloons, and chase dogs have been utilized for this
purpose. Information on methods can be obtained from the U.S. Department
of Agriculture, Animal Damage Control, 463 West Street, Amherst,
Massachusetts, 01022.
Household Pets - Excrement from household pets, especially dogs, is a
source of pollution that should be managed in lake watersheds. Pet manure
contains organic matter, plant nutrients, and bacteria which can transported
from paved surfaces to lake waters by stormwater runoff. An obvious BMP is
to collect and properly dispose of pet droppings.
Some Connecticut towns have adopted zoning ordinances requiring
owners or custodians of dogs to remove feces deposited on town property
F and to dispose of the waste in a sanitary manner. This type of ordinance
should be considered for lake watershed areas. A related BMP is a "leash law"
ordinance prohibiting pets from roaming unrestrained, thereby reducing the
z deposition of wastes in undesireable areas.
Lake Sediments - Sediments on the lake bottom may consume oxygen
from overlying lake waters, and may release phosphorus and nitrogen to
overlying waters. Oxygen depletion may impair cold water fishery habitat, and
recycled nutrients may contribute to nuisance algae blooms. Sediments in
shallow waters may also contain nutrients which support nuisance aquatic
weed growth. Sediments which support weed growth may increase wetlands
beyond natural and encroach on a lake.
Detailed water quality monitoring studies are needed to determine the
relationships between lake sediments and eutrophication problems. Lake
sediments may be a significant non point source of pollution at some
Connecticut lakes. In order to effectively manage eutrophication,
management of lake sediments may be needed in addition to watershed
management. The "Guide For Connecticut Lakes & Ponds On The Control-of
Algae and Aquatic Weeds," is available from the DEP, Bureau of Water
Management, Division of Planning and Standards, to assist lake communities
with in-lake management of eutrophication.
Recreational Beaches - Erosion by wave action and stormwater runoff
may wash sand from recreational beaches into a lake. Lost sand is usually
replaced with new sand, which is subsequently lost and-replaced again. As
16
e
the cycle continues, lost beach sand accelerates the filling-in of the lake,
increasing habitat for nuisance aquatic weeds. Some types of sand may also
cause turbidity and contribute. Beaches should be designed to have sand
stabilized by vegetation and/or by retaining walls. Where feasible, dry
dredging should be implemented to recapture sand washed into the lake.
Woodland and Timber Harvesting - An acre of properly managed
woodland in a lake watershed contributes much less phosphorus to the lake
than an acre of residential land in the some location. However, harvesting of
timber for firewood or lumber can potentially cause serious erosion and
sedimentation problems.
Information on tree harvesting and applicable BMPs is available from the
DEP Bureau of Parks & Forests, which distributes a 1990 guide entitled Timber
Harvesting and Water Quality in Connecticut - A Practical Guide For Protecting
Water Quality While Harvesting Forest Products.' Two regional Resource
Conservation and Development Councils in Connecticut provide information,
education, and technical assistance to land owners and loggers.
Town governments can effectively control logging operations. In 1987,
the State Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act was amended, eliminating
the silviculture exemption related to clear cutting in inland wetlands. In
addition, zoning authorities in numerous towns have adopted regulations to
regulate logging activities in uplands as well as wetlands. A lake association
should work with town officials to ensure that local permitting processes
adequately control timber harvesting in the lake watershed.
17
REFERENCES:
CT, Council on Soil and Water Conservation, 1984. 'Connecticut
Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control'.
CT, DEP, 1991. "Guide For Connecticut Lakes & Ponds on the Control of
Algae and Aquatic Weeds.'
CT, DEP, 1991. 'Manual of Best Management Practices for Agriculture".
CT, DEP, 1987. 'Non Point Source Pollution: An Assessment and
Management Plan".
CT, DEP, 1985. "Septic Systems Manual: A Guide to On-Site Subsurface
Sewage Disposal for Local Land-Use Officials".
CT RC & D Forestry Committee, 1990. 'Timber Harvesting & Water Quality
in Connecticut - A Practical Guide for Protecting Water Quality While
Harvesting Forest Products ".
US, EPA. 'Urban Targeting and Best Management Practice Selection".`
For copies of this publication, contact The Terrene Institute, 1000
Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 833-3380.
18
a
WATERSHED RESOURCE MAPS
The first .step in developing a lake management program is obtaining
information about the lake watershed 'pertinent to existing and potential non
point sources of phosphorus and sediments. Watershed information is available
from a variety of sources which provide baseline information to construct
various lake watershed maps showing features related to watershed
management issues.
Lake Watershed Boundary Map
The Natural Resources Center of DEP has delineated watershed
boundaries on mylar overlays on file at the State Office Building in Hdrtford.
Boundary maps for lake watersheds can be traced from the mylar on. to U.S.
Geological Survey maps to serve as base maps on which various watershed.
characteristics can be portrayed.
Detailed Soils Group Map
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, has
prepared detailed soils maps in cooperation with the Natural Resources Center
of DEP. Mylar overlays on file at the Natural Resources Center can be
transferred onto a watershed boundary map. Soils maps can be used to
evaluate the suitability of watershed land for on-site sewage disposal (septic
systems) and the erosion potential of watershed land. Technical assistance
may be needed to properly interpret the soils information.
Wetlands Maps
Connecticut legally defines inland wetlands in terms of soil drainage class
- as either poorly drained or very poorly drained - and by the position of soils
within a basin - as either alluvial or floodplain. Each town has a map of the
legally defined wetlands within its boundary titled "Official Wetlands Map", or,
if it includes watercourses, "Official Wetlands and Watercourses Map."
Further wetlands information can be obtained from the national wetlands
inventory, an effort which detailed the type and extent of barious wetland
vegetation on mylar overlays. These maps can be obtained from the Natural
Resources Center.
19
Flood Zone Maps
Towns have flood insurance rate maps, showing 100-year flood
boundaries. Development in these flood zones is regulated but not prohibited.
Land Use Maps
In 1976 and 1977, the regional planning agencies constructed land use
maps with fifteen- different categories of land use. Updated in 1980, these
maps are on file at Regional Planning Agency offices on mylar overlays. A
watershed land use map can be constructed by tracing this information onto
a lake watershed boundary map. Land use can be roughly updated to 1990,
through visual inspection of 1990 aerial photographs, available at the Natural
Resources Center, or field observations.
Other sources of land use information are town planning and zoning
commissions. Maps showing commercial, industrial, and residential zones are
available at the town office building.
Open Space Maps
A map of Connecticut showing state, federal and municipal land
unavailable for development is available from the Natural Resources Center.
20
CONNECTICUT LAKES MANAGEMENT GRANT PROGRAM
.Many watershed management activities are eligible for cost sharing
under a grant program established by Section 22o-339 of the Connecticut
General Statutes. This program specifically addresses the issue of lake
eutrophication in Connecticut's recreational lakes. Towns, lake authorities, and
certain lake associations are eligible to apply for grants. Lake and ponds
which qualify for grants are those which provide recreation for the general
public through state access or through access owned or leased by the
applicant. Grant applications are required to provide specific baseline
information and water quality data for the lake. DEP has conducted baseline
studies for most lakes with state access (see list of lakes with state access on
page 27). Applicants may independently conduct baseline studies.
Two types of grants are provided, diagnostic/feasibility study grants and
eutrophication abatement grants. A diagnostic/feasibility study characterizes
water quality conditions, identifies watershed sources of nutrients and
sediments, and evaluates corrective actions. Eutrophication abatement grants
fund the implementation of the actions recommended by a
diagnostic/feasibility study to prevent, reduce, or correct eutrophication.
The state grant is 75% of the cost of a diagnostic feasibility study and
50% of the cost of eutrophication abatement activities. If federal funds are
received, the federal grant for a study is 70% and the state grant is 200/6; the
federal grant for eutrophication abatement is 50% and the state grant is 259/6.
Complementary federal lakes management grants may be available
under section 314 of the Clean .Water Act. National funding levels and
eligibility requirements may change from year to year. Applicants wishing to
seek federal funds must comply with applicable federal regulations.
21
RESOURCE AGENCIES
State and Federal
Department of Environmental Protection
State Office Building
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, Connecticut 06106
Bureau of Water Management
Division of Planning and Standards
(566-2588)
Division of Inland Water Resource Management
(566-7280)
Bureau of Fisheries & Wildlife
Division of Inland Fisheries
(566-4477)
Bureau of Environmental Services
Natural Resources Center (Maps and Publications)
(566-7719)
Connecticut Council on Soil & Water Conservation
State Office Building
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, Connecticut 06106
(566-3540)
USDA Soil Conservation Service
Mansfield Professional Park
Storrs, Connecticut 06268
(429-9361)
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station
123 Huntington Street
New Haven, Connecticut 06054
(789-7272)
22
U.S. Geological Survey
450 Main Street
Hartford, Connecticut 06103
(240-3060)
U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
Animal Damage Control
463 West Street
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 253-2403
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Branch
424 Trapelo Road
Waltham, Massachusetts 02254
(617) 647-8338
23
REGIONAL PLANNING AGENCIES IN CONNECTICUT
Capitol Region Council of Govts. Northeastern CT Council
221 Main Street of Govts.
Hartford, CT 06106 10 Wauregan Road
(203) 622-2217 Brooklyn, CT 06234
(203) 774-1253
Central CT Regional Planning Agency Northwestern CT Council
225 North Main Street of Govts.
P.O. Box 1880 Sackett Hill Road
Bristol, CT 06010 Warren, CT 06754
(203) 589-7820 (203) 868-7341
Council of Govts. of Central South Central Regional
Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments
20 East Main Street 23 Peck Street
Waterbury, CT 06702 North Haven, CT 06473
(203) 757-0535 (203) 234-7555
CT River Estuary Reg'I Planning Agency Southeastern CT Reg'l 455
Boston Post Road Planning Agency
P.O. Box 778 139 Boswell Avenue
Old Saybrook, CT 06475 Norwich, CT 06360
(203) 388-3497 (203) 889-2324
Greater Bridgeport Regional Southwestern Regional
Planning Agency Planning agency
Bridgeport Transportation Center 213 Uberty Square
525 Water Street East Norwalk, CT 06855
Bridgeport, CT 06604 (203) 866-5543
(203) 366-5405
Housatonic Valley Council of Valley Regional Planning
Elected Officials Agency
Old Town Hall - Rte #25 Derby Station, 12 Main
Brookfield Center, CT 06805 Derby, CT 06418
(203) 775-6256 (203) 735-8688
24
Midstate Regional Planning Agency Windham Regional
100 DeKoven Drive Planning Agency
P.O. Box 139 968 Main Street
Middletown, CT 06457 Willimantic, CT 06226
(203) 347-7214 (203) 456-2221
Litchfield Hills Council of Elected
Officials
42 North Street
P.O. Box 187
Goshen, CT 06756-9723
(203) 491-9884
STATE COORDINATOR OF REGIONAL PLANNING ORGANIZATIONS:
Andrea Pereira, Regional Planning Coordinator
CT Office of Policy and Management
80 Washington Street
Hartford, CT 06106-4459
(203) 566-8398
25
4
COUNTY OFFICES
USDA Soil Conservation Service, District Conservationist (SCS)
Soil and Water Conservation Districts (S&WCD's)
UConn Cooperative Extension Service Extension Agents (UCONN)
Fairfield County SCS, S&WCD Windham County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Agricultural Center UConn Extension Center
67 Stony Hill Road P.O. Box 112
Bethel, Connecticut 06801 139 Wolf Den Road
774-6108 Brooklyn, CT 06234
774-9600 or 774-0224
Hartford County SCS, S&WCD Tolland County SCS, S&WCD
Agricultural Center UConn Agricultural Center
627 River Rd. 24 Hyde Avenue
Windsor, Connecticut Vernon, CT 06066
688-7725 875-3331
Litchfield County SCS, S&WCD
Litchfield Agricultural Center
Litchfield, Connecticut 06759
567-9019
Middlesex County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Extension Center
Saybrook Road
Haddam, Connecticut 06438
345-4511
New Haven County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Extension Service
322 North Main Street
Wallingford, Connecticut 06492
269-7509
New London County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Extension Service
562 New London Turnpike
Norwich, Connecticut_06360
887-4163
26
CONNECTICUT LAKE TROPHIC CONDITIONS
Lake owns Surface
Area
(Acres)
OLIGOTROPHIC
e
Bashan East Haddam 276.3
Beach Pond Voluntown 394.3
Billings North Stonington 105.1
Mashapaug Lake Union 297.1
Riga Lake Salisbury 169.5
Uncas Lake Lyme 69.0
West Hill Pond New Hartford 238.0
EARLY MESOTROPHIC
Bigelow Pond Union 18.5
Candlewood Lake New Fairfield, 5,420
Sherman, New Milford,
Danbury & Brookfield
Columbia Lake Columbia 277.2
Coventry Lake Coventry 378.0
Cream Hill Pond Cornwall 72.0
Dodge Pond East Lyme 33.0
East Twin Lake Salisbury 562.3
Higganum Reservoir Haddam 32.0
Killingly Pond Killingly 137.5
Mohawk Pond Goshen 15.2
Mt. Tom Pond Litchfield, Moms & 61.5
Washington
Norwich Pond Lyme 27.5
Pachaug Pond Griswold 830.9
Pattaconk Reservoir Chester 55.5
Rogers Lake Lyme & Old Lyme 264.9
S. Spectacle Lake Kent 93.0
27
Wauregan Reservoir Killingly 68.0
Lake Winchester Winchester 229.0
Wyassup Lake North Stonington 92.4
MESOTROPHIC
Lake Alexander Killingly 190.4
Anderson's Pond North Stonington 54.3
Ball Pond New Fairfield 89.9
_ Black Pond Woodstock 73.4
Lower Bolton Lake Bolton & Vernon 178.4
Burr Pond Torrington 85.6
Cedar Lake Chester 68.0
Crystal Lake Ellington & Stafford 200.9
Gardner Lake Salem, Montville & 486.8
Bozrah
Glasgo Pond Griswold 184.2
Gorton's Pond East Lyme 53.0
Green Falls Reservoir Voluntown 46.9
Halls Pond Ashford & Eastford 82.3
Hatch Pond Kent 61.0
Highland Lake Winchester 444.0
Little (Schoolhouse) Thompson 65.4
Pond
Morey Pond Ashford, Union 40.0
Park Pond Winchester 76.7
Pataganset Lake East Lyme 123.0
Lake Pocotopaug East Hampton 511.7
Powers Lake East Lyme 152.6
Quaddick Reservoir Thompson 466.8
Lake Quassapaug Middlebury 271.0
Quonnipaug Lake Guilford 111.6
Shenipsit Lake Vernon, Ellington & 522.8
Tolland
Terramuggus Lake Marlborough 83.0
Tyler Lake Goshen 182.0
West Side Pond Goshen 42.4
Lake Wononscopomuc Salisbury 352.6
Wrights Pond Westbrook, Essex & 37.0
Deep River
28
,
LATE MESOTROPHIC
Beseck Lake Middlefield 119.6
Black Pond Meriden & Middlefield 75.6
Middle Bolton Lake Vernon 114.9
Fitchville Pond" Bozrah 71.1
Lake Hayward East Haddam 198.9
Hitchcock Lake Wolcott 118.4
Long Pond Ledyard & North 98.6
Stonington
Mamanasco Lake Ridgefield 95.0
Moodus Reservoir East Haddam 451.0
Mudge Pond Sharon 201.0
Squantz Pond New Fairfield & 288.0
Sherman
Taunton Pond Newtown 126.0
Lake Waramaug Warren, Washington 680.2
& Kent
EUTROPHIC
Amos Lake Preston 105.1
Aspinook Pond Lisbon & Canterbury 333.3
Avery Pond Preston 50.6
Bantam Lake Litchfield & Morris 916.0
Batterson Park Pond Farmington'& New 162.7 .
Britain
Crystal Lake Middletown 35.5
Dog Pond Goshen 71.3
Eagleville Lake Mansfield 80.0
Lake Housatonic Shelton 328.2
Howell Pond Hartland 17.3
Lake Kenosia Danbury 56.0
Leonard Pond Kent 15.0
Lake Lillinonah Southbury, 1,900
Bridgewater, Brookfield
& Newtown
Linsley Pond North Branford & 23.3
Branford
Long Meadow Pond Bethlehem 11.7
Moosup Pond Plainfield 97.2
Rainbow Reservoir Windsor 235.0
Red Cedar Lake Lebanon 141.0
Roseland Lake Woodstock 88.0
Lake Wononpakook Salisbury 164.0
Lake Zoar Newtown, Monroe, 975.0
Oxford & Southbury
29
HIGHLY EUTROPHIC
Beachdale Pond Voluntown 46.0
Cedar Pond North Branford 21.8
Dooley's Pond Middletown 28.0
Hanover Pond Meriden 73.0
Holbrook Pond Hebron 72.5
Hopeville Pond Griswold 149.4
Lake of Isles North Stonington 87.1
Lantern Hill Pond Ledyard & North 15.1
Stonington
Messerschmidts Pond Westbrook & Deep 70.0
River
North Farms Reservoir Wallingford 62.5
Pickerel Lake Colchester 88.6
Silver Lake Berlin & Meriden 151.0
West Thompson Lake Thompson 195.0
Lake Winnemaug Watertown 120.0
Wood Creek Pond Norfolk 151.0
1860 Reservoir Wethersfield 35.0
30
J►JL ' Zh 1992
South Windsor
INLAND WETLANDS AGENCYA
C0NSEP`j6T!C'N -MMISSION
IN- LAKE MANAGEMENT GUIDE
FOR CONNECTICUT LAKES
CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
BUREAU OF WATER MANAGEMENT
Revised 1991
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Connecticut's Lakes Management Program . . . . . .. . : . . . . 2
Eutrophication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Acidification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Lake Management . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Aquatic Weed Control Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Weed Harvesting (4); Hydroraking (5); Benthic Weed
Barriers (5); Drawdown and Excavation (6); Hydraulic
Dredging (6); Grass Carp (7); Aquatic Herbicides (8);
Light Limiting Dyes (8); Winter Drawdown (8)
Algae Control Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Hypolimnetic Aeration (10); Hypolimnetic Withdrawal
(10); Aquatic Aigicides (10); Chemical Precipitation
(11); fountain and Surface Aerators (11);
Destratification (11)
Water Quality Terms 13
Connecticut Clean Lakes Grant Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Water Quality Classification . . . . . . . . . 18
Lake Management Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
References . . . . . . . . 20
Forward
Connecticut's lakes and ponds are valuable natural resources intensively
used for swimming, fishing, boating, and many other forms of water based
recreation. Although most people agree that these natural resources should
be preserved for the enjoyment of future generations, few people recognize
the economic value of our lakes. Money spent in pursuit of recreational
opportunities enhances local and state economies, and high property values
of lake front homes augment tax revenues of surrounding communities. If the
water quality of a lake begins to deteriorate, so will these benefits. Therefore,
maintaining the water quality of our lakes is of interest to citizens concerned
with stimulating economic growth, improving the quality of life, and preserving
natural resources.
This booklet is designed to give the reader a general overview of in-lake
management techniques applicable to Connecticut. It will not substitute the
need to seek advice or services from professionals in the field of lake
management. Examples provided in this booklet allow individuals interested in
certain in-lake management methods the opportunity to observe the technique
first hand and speak to people who have working experience with the
method. The effectiveness of these in-lake management techniques will be
greatly enhanced by the implementation of a sound watershed management
plan. "A Watershed Management Guide for Connecticut Lakes" (revised 1991)
presents the principles of lake management through prudent management of
the land surrounding the lake. In-lake management should not take
precedence over proper land management.
i
1
Connecticut's Lakes Management Program
The Connecticut Department of' Environmental Protection is the state
agency responsible for lake water quality management of Connecticut's
recreational lakes and ponds. This program, housed within the Bureau of Water
Management, develops and distributes this booklet and its accompanying
booklet "A Watershed Management Guide for Connecticut Lakes".
In addition to distribution of lake management literature, our staff of
biologists, engineers, and planners are available for assistance on the following:
• in-lake algae and weed control techniques
watershed management guidelines
general information on algae and weeds
general water quality data on a large number. of
Conecticut lakes
• technical assistance and review of proposed plans for
lake projects
Environmental Review Team reports
information on state and federal financial assistance
programs for algae and weed control activities
information on lake management services provided by
consultants and contractors
enforcement related to lakes
Individuals wishing assistance in these areas or a copy of these
publications at no charge should call the Bureau of Water Management at
(203) 566-6691.
Eutrophication
Eutrophication is the primary water quality problem impacting
Connecticut lakes. This process is the progressive aging of lakes and ponds.
Lakes and ponds in the advanced stages of eutrophication have frequent and
intense algae blooms, extensive beds of rooted aquatic plants, and oxygen
depletion problems. Under natural conditions this process occurs over a long
period of time. However, poor land use practices can accelerate
eutrophication by increasing the amount of plant nutrients and sediments
entering a lake. When this occurs, the process is called cultural eutrophication.
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The increase of plant nutrients and sediments accompanying
eutrophication, stimulates biological production of nuisance plants and
increases shoal areasand will eventually decrease the recreational utility and
aesthetic appeal of the lake. Through prudent land use management as
described in 'A Watershed Management Guide for Connecticut Lakes," cultural
eutrophication is controllable and manageable.
Acidification
Lake acidification processes have been investigated by the DEP.and the
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. Sources of acidification of, lake
waters in Connecticut include natural watershed soil acidification processes,
natural wetland acidification processes, natural soil acidification processes
associated with watershed reforestation, and acid precipitation. No lakes have
been identified as "affected", or impaired, by these sources. Therefore,
methods and procedures to mitigate the harmful effect of high acidity are not
necessary for Connecticut lakes at the present time.
Lake Management
The presence of algae and aquatic weeds does not constitute a water
quality problem. Algae and aquatic weeds are natural components of the
lake and provide fish and other aquatic organisms with habitat, food, spawning
areas, and oxygen through photosynthesis. When algae or weed growth
becomes so extensive that it interferes with the desired uses of the lake or
pond, then a balance between intended uses and nature should be
considered.
Municipalities, lake authorities, lake associations, property owner's
organizations, and individual property owners can be responsible for lake
management decisions. Often these organizations develop water quality
improvement programs after the lake begins to show signs of eutrophication.
This approach usually does not allow for a thorough analysis of the problem
and may lead to additional problems.
A more sound approach is to address water quality through development
and implementation of a lake and watershed management plan. Often a
lake restoration plan is called a diagnostic feasibility study. The diagnostic
portion of the study reviews the lake characteristics, analyzes water quality
problems, and recommends corrective measures. The feasibility section of the
study outlines the procedures and costs required to implement the
recommendations of the diagnostic study. Implementation of a diagnostic
feasibility plan will provide a more holistic approach to preserving or correcting
water quality problems than addressing problems as they arise.
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Aquatic Weed Control Methods
Aquatic macrophytes are plants which can be seen without the aid of
a microscope and live in lakes and ponds. Aquatic macrophytes can be
categorized into four types: free-floating, emergent, rooted with floating
leaves, and submergent. The free-floating aquatic plants such as duckweed
and watermeal appear like small clovers covering the surface of the lake.
Emergent weeds have roots in the lake bottom and leaves that extend into
the air or float on the surface. Examples of emergent weeds include cattails,
pickerelweed, water lilies and water shield. Submergent macrophytes have
roots in the sediments and grow entirely under water, although some have
floral bracts which may extend out of the water.
Weed Harvesting: Weed harvesting is the process of removing weeds from
a lake. This can be done by hand, with a rake, or with a mechanical weed
harvester. A mechanical weed harvester is a barge equipped with specialized
weed cutting equipment. Usually large weed harvesting programs require the
use of a mechanical weed harvester. In Connecticut, water milfoil is often the
target species of seasonal weed harvesting.
After weeds are cut by a mechanical weed harvester, weeds are drawn
up into the harvester by a conveyer belt and unloaded at shore directly or via
a shuffle boat. The harvested weeds must be disposed of at a site removed
from the lake drainage system, to prevent nutrients from draining into the lake
as the weeds decompose.
Free-floating weeds such as duckweed can not be controlled by
mechanical weed harvesting. These plants provide a particularly difficult
challenge because they-are not rooted. The only way to control these plants
outside of watershed management and herbicides is to skim them off the
surface of the lake. This can be done on small ponds with a net or line with
floats attached. Another option is to place an oil boom at the lake's inlet to
capture incoming plants. Although this method requires continuous
maintenance, it has been successful at Shaker Pine Pond in Enfield.
Benefits of harvesting include the removal of nutrients from the lake and
the ability to leave some areas undisturbed for fish and wildlife habitat.
Although harvesting provides immediate reduction of weeds, this process does
not remove roots and regrowth of plants usually occurs. Consequently,
harvesting may need to be repeated periodically throughout the recreation
season. Additionally, care must be taken to prevent weed fragments from
escaping. Many problematic plants, including water milfoil, can reproduce
through fragmentation. If not done properly, weed harvesting may actually
promote the spread of these plants.
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A few communities in Connecticut have purchased weed harvesters for
use on their lakes including the Town of Salisbury, the Lake Zoar Authority, and
the Lake Housatonic Authority. Other lake communities contract with weed
control specialists to obtain this service. If a community decides to purchase
a weed harvester and implement a weed harvesting program, initial
expenditures will include purchase of equipment and a feasibility study which
includes a disposal plan. Operating expenses include labor, fuel, insurance,
and equipment maintenance.
Before weed harvesting begins, the local inland wetlands commission
should determine if a local permit is required. In addition, a Connecticut
Natural Diversity Data Base request form should be submitted to the DEP,
Natural Resources Center. This form initiates a review of DEP information to
determine if endangered, threatened, or special concerned species will be
affected by the project.
Hydroraking: A hydrorake is a specialized type .of weed harvester which
mechanically removes aquatic plants and associated root systems.
Hydroraking is usually reserved for plant species, such as water lilies, which
have rhizomes or extensive root systems and are difficult to control through
mechanical weed harvesting. As with mechanical weed harvesting,
hydroraking removes both weeds and nutrients from the lake.
In Connecticut, lake communities hire a contractor to perform these
services. Currently only two contractors provide hydroraking services in
Connecticut.
The same permit and notification procedures that apply to mechanical
weed harvesting also apply to hydroraking.
Benthic Weed Barriers: Benthic weed barriers are sheets of fiberglass mesh
screening or perforated black nylon which covers the bottom of the lake.
Benthic weed barriers prevent weeds from growing by blocking sunlight and
physically restricting the growth of plants.
The expense of the benthic weed barriers usually restricts use to active
areas such as boat launches, swimming areas, and boat lanes. Often benthic
barriers will become detached leading to bubbling in the material. This can
be prevented if installed by scuba divers who have experience in installing
benthic barriers. Benthic barriers should be removed at the end of each
summer for cleaning and storage.
Presently, benthic weed barriers prevent encroachment of water milfoil
in swimming areas at Candlewood Lake and Lake Wononscopomuc.
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Drawdown and Excavation: Draining a lake and excavating bottom
sediments reduces weed habitat by increasing water depth and removing
nutrient rich substrate. Although a relatively high capital outlay is required, the
restorative effects can be generally long-term and relatively quick and
inexpensive compared to hydraulic dredging.
Drawdown and excavation requires heavy earth moving equipment
which can sink in soft sediments. Therefore, a map depicting water depth and
sediment depth is required. If the sediment will not dry to a consistency
suitable to support the equipment, hydraulic dredging may be a possible
alternative.
Prior to dredging, a feasibility study should determine the amount of
sediment to be removed, potential uses of dredge spoils, type of equipment,
access points, and control methods to prevent additional sedimentation into
the pond. Additionally, a feasibility study should identify Army Corps of
Engineer permits, local inland wetlands permits, and review processes required
by various divisions in the Department.of Environmental Protection.
The feasibility study should also consider the ability to raise and lower the
level of the lake. If the spillway does not have this capability, the lake may
be pumped or siphoned. All calculation for drawdown and refilling should
consider potential downstream effects.
Before dredge spoils can be disposed, sediment characteristics should be
known. An analysis of sediment characteristics should determine any
contaminants and assess the marketability of dewatered sediments.
Drawdown and excavation has been used to control nuisance aquatic
weeds at Gorton Pond in East Lyme and Lake Winfield in Plymouth and
planned for Pattagansett Lake in East Lyme, Hoadley's Pond in Seymour, and
Highland Lake in Winchester.
Hydraulic Dredging: Hydraulic dredging should be considered for removal
of lake sediments when drawdown and excavation is not feasible. A hydraulic
dredge is a specialized barge with a long pipe that extends to the bottom of
the lake. At the end of the pipe, rotating blades break-up the sediments so
that a sediment slurry can be pumped up to the dredge. The slurry is then d
pumped from the dredge to a series of containment basins for dewatering.
As the slurry drains through the basin system, the suspended solids settle: The
last basin is called a flocculation basin where final settling of solids usually
requires treatment with a chemical flocculent before water can be discharged
back into the lake.
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An extensive feasibility study . must be completed by a qualified
engineering/environmental firm prior to undertaking a hydraulic dredging
project. Capital outlay is extremely high and includes purchase of the dredge
and related equipment or contracting for dredging services, engineering
services, and construction of the containment basins. If land near the lake is
not suitable for construction of the containment basin, this method may not be
feasible. Permits which may be required include a water pollution discharge
permit from the Bureau of Water Management Division of Engineering and
Enforcement, Army Corps of Engineer 404, and local inland wetlands permits,
in addition to reviews by various DEP divisions.
Connecticut has two hydraulic dredging projects in progress. The
Bantam Lake restoration project, in its eighth year, is funded through a
cooperative effort using local, DEP, and Federal Clean Water Act funds. This
project also encompasses an extensive watershed management program
which includes removal of a sewage treatment discharge and extending sewer
lines to critical areas of the watershed. After completion, a study to determine
the effectiveness of the project will be conducted. The 1860 Reservoir project
in Wethersfield is funded largely by the community with some assistance from
the state through use of a state owned dredge and a grant award from DEP's
Clean Lakes Program. A third hydraulic dredging project is slated for Silver
Lake in Meriden.
Grass Carp: In Connecticut, private pond owners have attempted to use
triploid grass carp to control aquatic weeds. Triploid grass carp are sterile fish
that preferentially consume various species of aquatic plants. Although the
success of this management program has not been well documented,
increased demands to liberalize restrictions of sterile grass carp stocking have
resulted in several changes in DEP regulations. Connecticut now allows
importation of sterile grass carp through a permit program administered by the
DEP, Division of Inland Fisheries. Permit conditions require an inspection and
recommendation by a DEP technical assistance fisheries biologist, written
permission of all property owners, screened inlet and outlet, and approval by
the Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection.
The effects of stocking sterile grass carp on the complex biology of lakes
and ponds is not adequately understood. Some of the suspected negative
impacts may be: an increase in the populations of some plant species due to
preferential feeding; inducement of algal blooms due to the concurrent
elimination of macrophytes and influx of nutrients via grass carp feces;
interference with the reproduction of game fishes requiring vegetation for
spawning; increased predation on various fish species due to reduction of
refuge habitats; and creation of unbalanced ecosystems. Extensive
documentation shows that grass carp prefer some species of aquatic plants.
Preferred plants inlcude native species of aquatic plants such as the algae
Chara, and Nitella. Grass carp may consume these plants before feeding on
unpalatable plants, such as water milfoil Myriophyllum sop.-
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The DEP's Lakes Program does not advocate grass carp for control of
aquatic weeds. The primary reason is that grass carp do not reduce the level
of nutrients within the pond and therefore does not correct the cause of the
problem. funding of grass carp stocking is not eligible for funding under the
DEP's grant program for recreational lakes. Individuals interested in further
information about sterile grass carp should contact the Division of Inland
Fisheries at 566-4477.
Aquatic Herbicides: A limited number of chemicals are approved for aquatic
use in the State of Connecticut. The program regulating aquatic herbicides
is separate from the lakes management program. All pesticide related issues
are the responsibility of the Bureau of Waste Management, Pesticide
Management Division.
State regulations require a permit for every chemical treatment. The
application process for a permit includes a review by the Pesticide
Management Division and Division of Inland Fisheries, as well as review and
comments from the local inland wetiand commission. Permits are reviewed
with respect to the nature,of the weed condition, the proposed chemical and
dose, application procedures, and potential adverse effects on water uses.
Management of aquatic vegetation through pesticides requires
continuous treatments. Due to these short term benefits, aquatic pesticides
management used in place of long range management programs is ineligible
for funding under the state's Clean Lakes Program. Individuals wishing more
information on this subject can request a copy of "Control of Aquatic Weeds
and Algae" from the Division of Pesticide Management at 566-5148.
Light Limiting Dyes: Food coloring dyes that decrease the ability of sunlight
to filter through water are commercially available for weed and algae control.
Introducing dyes reduces sunlight penetration into the water and eliminates
essential light rays for photosynthesis. Use of these dyes is restricted to lakes
which do not have outlet streams. Therefore, light limited dyes con be used
in a limited number of ponds. All applications of light limiting dyes must be
permitted by DEP Division of Pesticide Management.
Winter Drawdown: Winter drawdown of lakes and ponds exposes aquatic
weeds with shallow root systems to freezing temperatures. If successful, winter
drawdown can annually control many nuisance weeds, including water milfoil.
The primary advantage of winter drawdown is the relatively low cost compared
to other weed control options. To achieve annual control of aquatic weeds,
a waterbody should be lowered ten feet below the normal summer level for
2-3 weeks of freezing temperatures.
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Although a detailed diagnostic feasibility study may not be required to
initiate a winter drawdown, a number of considerations need to be addressed
prior to a drawdown. The first concern is the ability to lower the. lake. If the
spillway does not have this capability,.the lake may be pumped or siphoned.
When shoreline residents utilize on-site wells, an analysis of the potential effects
to the water table and the consequential effect to wells should be performed.
Consideration should also be given to controlling releases to prevent
potential of flooding downstream areas. Receiving streams that gradually
decline in elevation are particularly prone to flooding.
In addition to drawdown, refill must be considered. The refill should be
sufficient to maintain downstream flows and achieve'the normal summer level
before the beginning of the growing season (approximately April 15 in
Connecticut). If a lake is lower than the normal level during the growing
season, areas previously too deep for weed growth may, develop new
infestations of weeds.
Recently, additional concerns have been generated regarding possible
adverse biological effects which can occur from a winter drawdown. Because
the area of the lake exposed to freezing is the most biologically productive
and diverse zone of the lake, winter exposure will kill many desirable organisms
and may disrupt the entire ecosystem. Unless nuisance weeds become
intolerable, winter drawdown should be avoided.
Before initiating drawdown, the following local and state agencies should
be contacted. The DEP Division of Inland Fisheries should be contacted to
determine potential impacts to fish populations. A Natural Diversity Data Base
request form should be submitted to the DEP Natural Resources Center. And
the DEP Division of Inland Water Resources and local inland wetland
commissions should be contacted to determine whether a drawdown is a
regulated activity.
Algae Control Methods
Algae are microscopic plants which often decrease the clarity of lakes
and ponds. All lakes in Connecticut contain algae. The type and
concentration of the algae are the factors which make the presence of algae
a nuisance. Planktonic algae are microscopic single cells or filaments
suspended in the water column. These encompass various algae groups
including diatoms, green, and- blue-green algae. Filamentous algae are long,
green, thread-like algae that grow on the lake bottom or form floating mats,
and may be confused with aquatic plants. Therefore, before using an algae
control method, the algae should be identified by someone familiar with lake
ecology.
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Hypolimnetic Aeration: Hypolimnetic aeration introduces oxygen rich water
into the hypolimnion. This is accomplished by introducing bottom water to an
oxygen source and then reintroducing it back to the bottom of the lake. This
method can increase habitat for cold water fish species and prevent
phosphorous releases from lake sediments.
It is essential to understand the physical and chemical characteristics of
a waterbody before hypolimnetic aeration can begin; for example, can
hypolimnetic aeration control phosphorus releases from the sediments? Lake
characteristics are also needed for the design of equipment(i.e. compressors
and circulation towers), and to outline annual operating costs of the system.
Although hypolimnetic aeration has been installed at Lake Waramaug,
the results of this system have not yet been reported.
Hypolimnetic Withdrawal: Hypolimnetic withdrawal reduces phosphorus
within the lake by removing phosphorus rich hypolimnetic water, by discharging
hypolimnetic water downstream during summer stratification. Hypolimnetic
withdrawal was first employed at Lake Wononscopomuc and is presently
utilized at Lake Waramaug and Plymouth Lake.
Before a hypolimnetic withdrawal system can begin, a detailed
diagnostic feasibility study, similar to the type required for hypolimnetic
aeration, must be completed. However, additional information will be required
to determine the possible adverse effects to streams receiving the hypolimnetic
water. Hypolimnetic water may be rich in iron, sulfates, phosphorus, and low
in oxygen. These constituents can degrade the water quality of receiving
streams. The Department of Environmental Protection assures that receiving
streams will not be degraded by requiring a water pollution discharge permit
for most hypolimnetic withdrawal discharges.
Aquatic Algicides: A limited number of chemicals are approved for aquatic
use in the State of Connecticut. The program regulating algicides is separate
from the lakes management program. All pesticide related issues are the
responsibility of the Bureau of Waste Management, Pesticide Management
Division.
The Pesticide Management Division requires a permit for every chemical
treatment. The application process to obtain a permit includes a review by
the Pesticide Management Division and Division of Inland Fisheries, as well as
review and comments from the local inland wetland commission. Permits are
reviewed with respect to the extent of nuisance vegetation, the proposed
chemical and dose, application procedures, and potential adverse effects on
water uses.
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Controlling algae with aligicides requires continuous treatments. Due to
these short term benefits, aquatic pesticides management, used in place of
long range management programs, is ineligible for funding under the state's
Clean Lakes Program. Individuals wishing more information on this subject can
request a copy of "Control of Aquatic Weeds and Algae" from the Division of
Pesticide Management at 566-5148.
Chemical Precipitation: The chemical aluminum sulfate (alum) applied to a
lake reduces the phosphorus concentration within the water- column. After
applying to the surface of the lake, alum binds with the phosphorus in the
water column as it sinks to the bottom, reducing the phosphorus concentration
within the lake. As the aluminum phosphorus precipitant settles on the bottom
of the lake, phosphorus in the sediments becomes trapped and cannot be
mobilized if the hypolimnion loses oxygen.
Although no Connecticut lake organization has successfully used alum to
control internal nutrient loading, alum as a management tool does hold some
promise for Connecticut's lakes. Many lakes in the state have alkalinity and
pH levels in ranges that would allow alum dosages at concentrations that
could provide long term control.. However, a thorough analysis of the lake and
appropriate application methods is required to determine whether alum
treatments will be successful and environmentally sound at individual lakes.
Alum was recommended to control internal nutrient loading by DEP in
1979 for Ball Pond in New Fairfield. However, this recommendation was not
implemented.
Fountain and Surface Aerators: Fountain and surface aerator systems have
been installed im many small urban ponds to discourage the formation of
nuisance algal mats. These systems keep the water steadily movingin the
pond. The resulting turbulence inhibits algal growth and therefore reduces
the amount of scums and mats that might otherwise form on the pond surface.
Before a fountain or surface aerator is installed, the design should be
adequate to meet the needs of the pond. The cost of operating the.system
should be included in the design. Additionally, consideration should be given
to the depth from which the water will be drawn. If the system is drawing
from a depth of greater than approximately ten feet, the lake may become
destratified. Please see discussion below on destratification.
Destrattrication: Destratification, or artificial circulation, eliminates thermal
stratification by pumping compressed air through perforated pipes installed on
the bottom of the lake. Air bubbles supplied from the pipes rise through the
water column and mix the hypolimnion with the epilimnion. .
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When the lake destratifies, algae cells can circulate into areas too dark
for photosynthesis. This condition decreases the productivity of the algae and
reduces the amount of algae within the lake. Additionally, mixing may initially
introduce CO2 into the epilimnion and lower the pH. This may reduce
favorable habitat for noxious blue green algae and increase favorable
conditions for less bothersome green algae.
Although many desirable effects may be produced with artificial
circulation, poor design of the system or installation of a system into a lake
which does not stratify often results in little or no water quality improvements.
In order to reduce the potential of installing an ineffective system, a diagnostic
feasibility study should be completed.
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Water Quality Terms
The following definitions briefly describe some of the common parameters
used when assessing the water quality of a lake. Familiarity with these terms
assists individuals in developing a basic understanding of eutrophication and
lake ecosystems.
Eutrophication: The aging of lakes. increasing nutrients and sediments
cause increases in algae, aquatic plants, and shallow areas.
Watershed or drainage basin: The land area which drains water into
a given waterbody.
Transparency or clarity: Refers to the distance one can see into the
water. Transparency is measured with a white and black disk
called a secchi disk,
Water Temperature/Dissolved Oxygen: Water temperature and
dissolved oxygen play extremely important and intertwined roles in
the lake ecosystem. Water temperature determines the lake's
mixing characteristics which in turn influence the dissolved oxygen
levels within the lake. Dissolved oxygen (D.O.) is essential to the
metabolism of nearly all aquatic organisms.
Nutrients: Algae and aquatic weeds require nutrients to grow,
especially nitrogen and phosphorus. Enrichment of a lake with
these nutrients causes eutrophication. Phosphorus is typically the
nutrient which regulates the amount of algae growth. The key to
controlling eutrophication is controlling nutrient enrichment.
Alkalinity: A measurement of the ability of a lake to neutralize
acid substances, usually expressed in mg/1 of CaCOV
Photosynthesis: The process by which plants utilize light energy to
convert inorganic substances into organic material. Oxygen is a
by-product of this process.
Macrophyte: A plant which can be seen without the aid of a
magnifying lens.
Chlorophyll-a: A pigment associated with photosynthesis which
serves as an index of algal productivity.
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Summer Stratification: During the summer, deep lakes, thermally
stratify into distinct "thermal zones", as depicted in Figure 1.
Thermal stratification results when the surface water becomes less
dense as it warms throughout the summer. This density gradient
physically separates the surface waters from the colder, more
dense, bottom waters.
EPILIMNION
THERMOCLINE
HYPOLIMNION
Figure 1: Typical summer stratification of a deep lake.
The epilimnion, or top layer, is the warmest layer of water. Aquatic
weeds and most summer algae blooms occur in this zone. Atmospheric
diffusion and photosynthetic activity continually supply oxygen to this zone.
The hypolimnion, or bottom layer, contains the coldest waters and is often void
of oxygen. The metalimnion, or thermocline, is a transition zone which
separates the epilmnion from the hypolimnion. A _common definition of the
metalimnion is the depth where water temperature drops approximately 1°C
with each meter increase in depth.
Water temperature, biological activity, and weather conditions influence
the distribution of dissolved oxygen. During the summer, the cold bottom
waters of oligotrophic lakes generally contain oxygen. In eutrophic lakes, the
decay of organic material (such as algae which has died and settled on the
bottom of a lake), removes dissolved oxygen from the hypolimnion. This source
of oxygen cannot be replaced while the lake is thermally stratified. When this
occurs, fish habitat is lost and the hypolimnion becomes habitat to only
organisms which can tolerate anaerobic conditions. If all the oxygen is
removed, phosphorus and ammonia nitrogen from the sediments are released
into the hypolimnion. These nutrients may reach the epilimnion during a wind
mixing event or fall overturn and fertilize on algae bloom.
Some exceptions to the typical stratification pattern exist. These
exceptions include lakes which flush quickly such as lakes created by damming
rivers (impoundments), shallow lakes, and ponds. In these waterbodies, surface
waters may be only slightly warmer than bottom waters or uniform throughout
the water column.
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Fall Overturn: In the fall, the epilimnion cools, becomes more
dense, and the lake mixes from surface to bottom. During fall
overturn, the temperature and nutrient levels are uniform
throughout the water column and dissolved, oxygen is replenished.
Winter Stratification: Winter stratification differs from summer
stratification because the coldest waters occupy the surface of the
lake. Although colder water holds more oxygen, it often becomes
depleted when ice eliminates the contribution of atmospheric
oxygen and reduces light penetration needed for photosynthesis.
In shallow eutrophic lakes, this can result in winter fish kills.
Spring Turnover: When the ice melts, wind mixes the surface and
bottom waters, resulting in spring turnover. The lake remains
physically and chemically uniform until the surface waters begin to
warm at the onset of summer stratification.
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Connecticut Clean Lakes Grant Program
One of the major elements of the Connecticut lakes management
program is administration of Section 22a-339 CGS, "Grants to Improve Water
Quality of Lakes Used for Public Recreation". Funds are made available for this
program annually by the Connecticut General Assembly. When funds are
available, applications are accepted on or before August 1 of each year.
Objective - The grant program addresses the problem of lake eutrophication,
the process of nutrient enrichment and sedimentation which causes algae
blooms, nuisance weed growths, and dissolved oxygen depletion.
Eligible Applicants - Towns, lake authorities, and certain lake associations are
eligible to apply for grants. Lake authorities must be established in
accordance with section 7-151(a) of the general statutes. Lake associations
must be established as taxing districts by special act or in accordance with
Section 7-325 of the general statutes, authorized to make appropriations, levy
taxes, and perform lake management functions.
Eligible Lakes - The lake or pond must provide recreation for the general public
through state access or through access owned or leased by the applicant.
Priority System - Each year, grant applications may be ranked according to
the priority point system described in Section 1(c) of the regulations.
Information to prioritize a lake is obtained by a baseline study which is not
funded by the grant program. DEP has conducted baseline studies for many
lakes with state access. Applicants may independently conduct baseline
studies.
Types of Grants - There are two types of grants, diagnostic feasibility study
grants and eutrophication abatement grants. A diagnostic feasibility study
characterizes water quality conditions, identifies watershed sources of nutrients
and sediments, and evaluates corrective actions. Eutrophication abatement
is the implementation of actions recommended by a diagnostic feasibility study
to prevent, reduce, or correct eutrophication.
Federal Funding - Complementary federal lakes management grants may be
available under Section 314 of the Clean Water Act. National funding levels
and eligibility requirements may change from year to year. Applicants wishing
to seek federal funds must comply with applicable federal regulations.
Grant Shares - The state grant is 75% of the cost of a diagnostic feasibility
study and 50% of the cost of eutrophication abatement activities. If federal
funds are received, the federal grant for a study is 70% and the state grant is
20%; the federal grant for eutrophication abatement is 500/0 and the state grant
is 25%.
16
about
he g
Individuals desiring further inform he nBureau tof Water Managemen about
at
a particular project should contact t
566-6691 for the following information:
• Statutes of state funding for the program.
• Regulations pertaining to this program.
Application and instructions for a diagnostic feasibility study
grant.
Application and instructions for a eutrophication abatement
grant.
Procedures for determining natural trophic tendency of lakes.
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Water Quality Classification
The water quality classifications of Connecticut lakes are based on
designated uses and identify the criteria necessary to support those uses. A
few recreational lakes are Class AA waters, indicating a tributary to drinking
water supplies. Most recreational lakes in Connecticut are either Class A or
Class B waters. Class A waters are recreational waters suitable for fishing and
swimming which may not receive treated wastewater discharges. Class B
waters are recreational waters suitable for fishing and swimming which may
receive treated wastewater discharges. A dual classification, such as B/A,
describes the existing condition and the adopted goal.
Lake classifications can be obtained from DEP water quality classification
maps. DEP leachate and wastewater discharge source maps, available from
DEP Maps and Publications (566-7719), provide additional information on
current and historical pollution sources.
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lake Management Information
Information on lakes and lake management is available from a variety
of sources. The DEP has published and unpublished data on specific lakes and
an assortment of materials available on lake-management. Individuals wishing
information on a particular lake can refer to the DEP offices listed below or
order a copy of the DEP publications listed in the reference section.
Lakes Management Section 566-6691
General information on water quality and lake management.
Division of Inland Fisheries 566-4477
Information about fisheries and boat launch facilities.
Pesticide Management Division 566=3654
Permit information for aquatic pesticide applications.
DEP Maps and Publications Sales Room 566-7719
To place orders for DEP publications.
DEP Inland Water Resources 566-7160
Assistance and regulation of wetlands, dams, drawdowns and
related issues.
DEP Natural Resource Center 566-3540
Information regarding endangered, threatened, and special
concern species.
In addition to the information available from the DEP, the North
American Lake Management Society distributes information on lake
management. This nonprofit organization has a bimonthly publication, annual
meetings, and a variety of literature directed at assisting lake management
organizations. Individuals wishing to become members of the North American
Lake Management Society or information on their publications should contact
the North American Lake Management Society at the following address:
North American Lake Management Society
University of Florida Research and Technical Park
Box 27, One Progress Boulevard
Alachua, FL 32615
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References
Cole, A. G., 1983. Textbook of Limnology, The C.V. Mosby Company.
Cook, D. G., Welch, E. W., Peterson, S. A., Newroth, P. R., 1986. Lake and
Reservoir Restoration, Ann Arbor Science.
CT, DEP, 1987. Control of Water Weeds and Algae.
CT, DEP, 1987. A Guide To Lakes and Ponds of Connecticut.
CT, DEP, 1982. The Trophic Classification of Seventy Connecticut Lakes.
CT, DEP, 1990. The Troohic Classification of Forty-nine Connecticut Lakes.
CT, DEP, 1989. Stockina Recommendations for Jropical Grass Carp.
CT, DEP,1990. A Watershed Management Guide For Connecticut Lakes.
Olem, H. and G. Flock, eds. 1990. Lake and Reservoir Restoration Guidance
Manual. 2nd edition. EPA 440/4-90-006. Prep. by N. Am. Lake Manage. Soc. for
U.S. Environ. Prot. Agency, Washington , DC.
Wedepol, R.E., D.R. Knauer, G.B. Wolbert, H. Olem, P.J. Garrison, and K.
Kepford. 1990 Monitoring Lake and Reservoir Restoration. EPA 440/4-90-007.
Prep. by N.Am. Lake Manage. Soc. for U.S. Environ. Prot. Agency, Washington,
DC.
20
If'solids are not removed from the tank, they will wash into and
clog the leachfield.
Do not flush strong cleaning agents such as drain cleaner and
bleach into a septic system. These chemicals may kill the
beneficial microorganisms needed to break down wastes.
• Do not use the septic system for disposal of kitchen wastes.
Ground up garbage from a kitchen sink garbage disposal can
overburden a septic tank and impair its function.
• Conserve water and give the septic system time to 'rest' after
heavy use. This allows the septic system to work more efficiently.
• Do not dispose of paint or other household chemicals in the septic
system. These chemicals can kill beneficial microorganisms in the
septic tank and may also contaminate ground water.
• Use nonphosphate laundry detergents. This practice can reduce
the amount of phosphorus passing through the septic system by 30
to 40 percent.
Soil Erosion - Soil erosion is the process by which the land's surface is
worn away by the action of wind, water, ice and gravity. In lake watersheds,
soil erosion by surface runoff of water and by shoreline wave action are
important concerns. Natural erosion occurs at a very slow and generally
uniform rate. However, disturbance of the land's surface by human activity
eliminates the protection provided by natural vegetation and exposes soils to
erosion. In addition, exposed soil can become compacted, significantly
reducing its infiltration capacity, resulting in greater volume and velocity of
runoff.
The severity of erosion and sedimentation is influenced by soil type, slope
of the land, type of vegetative cover, intensity and duration of precipitation
and proximity to a watercourse. Serious natural erosion can occur on land
with steep slopes, along streambanks and along lake shorelines. Common
manmade sites of erosion include construction sites, roadway embankments,
roadway drainage ditches, cultivated fields, and timber harvesting areas.
Construction site erosion can be particularly severe. Research has shown
that soil erosion from construction sites may be 10 to 100_ times greater than
erosion from agricultural land of the same size, slope, and soil type. Because
the. demand to develop lake watershed land is so high (especially land near
the lake), construction site erosion can play a major role in lake eutrophication.
10
Connecticut's Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act, Sections 22a-325 to
22a-329 of the General Statutes, provides for a statewide coordinated erosion
and sediment control plan for land being developed. Towns are required to
adopt planning and zoning regulations requiring erosion and sediment control
plans for disturbed areas greater than one-half acre in size. The town must
certify the technical adequacy of the plans and provide for the inspection of
installation of the control measures. The town may consult with the County Soil
and Water Conservation District for technical review of plans. Single family
dwellings which are not part of a subdivision of land are exempt from town
erosion and sediment control regulations by state statute, and cannot be
controlled by the town under the authority of state erosion and sediment
control laws.
Construction site erosion can be controlled by utilizing the BMPs
described in' 'Connecticut Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control,'
prepared by the Connecticut Council on Soil and Water Conservation. This
technical handbook assists government officials, developers, engineers,
contractors and others in minimizing erosion and sedimentation. Among the
erosion control topics discussed in detail are site planning; vegetative controls
such as seeding, sodding, and tree planting; non-structural controls such as hay
bale checks, mulching, land grading, and traffic control; and structural controls
such as diversions, riprap, and sediment basins. The effectiveness of erosion
controls for constructions sites in the watershed should be monitored. Any
observed incidents of turbidity or siltation in the lake or its tributary
watercourses should be reported to the town zoning enforcement officer for
inspection and follow-up corrective action.
Streambank erosion has an immediate and often severe impact on lake
water quality. Activities that disturb land surfaces should be avoided in these
areas. Several BMPs for streambanks are described in 'Guidelines For Soil
Erosion and Sediment Control'. Bank sloping, riprap, vegetation, jetties, fencing,
and removal of obstructions to stream flow are measures appropriate to
protect vulnerable streambank sites.
Maintaining naturally vegetated buffer strips along stream corridors, a
universal BMP, controls streambank erosion. Vegetated buffer strips protect the
soil and also intercept runoff, removing sediment and phosphorus. A lake
association should participate in review of applications for town wetlands and
zoning permits pertaining to proposed uses of streambank properties in a lake
watershed. Any permitted construction activities in streambank areas should
employ strict erosion and sediment controls.
Wave action con also erode shorelines. Lakefront •properties with
Vulnerable shorelines should consider the following BMPs: maintaining
vegetated buffer strips, leaving rocks and boulders undisturbed, and employing
strict erosion and sediment controls for construction activities. Also, masonry
retaining walls can be built to absorb the shock of waves and prevent erosion.
11
'Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control' should be referred to
for general guidance on the construction of retaining walls; professional
engineers, professional masons, and the town building inspector can provide
further guidance. In addition, leaving existing rocks in place along the shore
to diffuse wave action provides an effective measure against erosion.
Agriculture - In many lake watersheds, agricultural lands are potential
non point sources of sediments and nutrients. Sources of nutrients and
sediments associated with agriculture include croplands, grazing lands, feedlots,
animal wastes, and tree nurseries. BMPs for croplands include conservation
tillage, contour farming, contour striperopping, no till seeding, terracing,
vegetative buffers, winter cover crops, and specialized fertilizer application
procedures. Grazing land BMPs include terracing, fencing to protect wetlands
and watercourses, maintenance of natural waterways, and maintenance of
vegetative buffer strips. Feedlot BMPs include paving, stormwater diversion,
and runoff treatment. Animal waste BMPs include construction of storage
areas, diversion and treatment of stormwater, and specialized manure
spreading practices. Tree nursery BMPs include contour planting, cover crops,
and specialized fertilization procedures.
Several government agencies have programs; to assist in the
implementation of agricultural BMPs. The USDA Soil Conservation Service, a
federal agency, provides technical assistance to farmers on planning and
implementing agricultural BMPs and developing 'farm resources management
plans' for individual farms. The USDA Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation
Service, also a federal agency, assists in funding BMP projects undertaken by
the farmer. The University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension Service, a
state agency, provides information and education to farmers on. the use of
pesticides and fertilizers. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, also
a state agency, performs BMP research and demonstration projects. The
County Soil and Water Conservation Districts serve as the vital communications
link between government programs and the agricultural community.
A lake association can obtain information on the status of agricultural
BMPs in the watershed by consulting with the County Soil and Water
Conservation District and establish cooperative, working relationships with
District personnel, federal Soil Conservation Service personnel, and local farmers
in order to develop a strategy for the timely implementation of any agricultural
BMPs needed to protect lake water quality.
In 1991, the DEP prepared a report entitled 'Manual of Best
Management Practices for Agriculture' for Connecticut's Aquifer Protection
Program. This manual contains detailed information on agricultural BMPs
needed to protect the quality of ground waters used as public drinking water
supplies. The manual contains information applicable to lake watershed
management programs.
12
Lawn and Garden Fertilizers - In residential areas, fertilizers are
commonly applied to lawns, home gardens, ornamental shrubs and trees to
promote plant growth. Fertilizers usually contain the plant nutrients nitrogen,
phosphorus and potassium. In a lake watershed, these nutrients may be
transported to surface waters, encouraging aquatic plant growth in the lake
as well. This concern is most important for shoreline properties because
proximity to the lake increases the likelihood that the fertilizers used around the
home may also fertilize the lake.
Residents in lake watersheds should be very judicial about the use of
fertilizers and should consider not using fertilizers at all. If fertilizers are to be
used, then the type of fertilizer should be matched to the specific needs of the
soil and the plants being grown. A fertilizer 'prescription' for the correct type
and amount of fertilizer can be obtained by having a soil sample analyzed by
the University of Connecticut soils laboratory. Their recommendations should
be followed carefully. Soil testing kits can be obtained from the UCONN
Extension Service office for a nominal fee.
The timing of fertilizer applications is also an important consideration.
Fertilizers should not be applied if heavy rain is forecast because nutrients can
be washed away by surface runoff and carried into the lake. Fertilizer
applications should also be avoided in the late summer and fall when active
plant growth has ended. Nutrients not captured by plants are likely to be
transported off the property during rainstorms.
Yard and Garden Vegetation Disposal - Leaves, gross clippings, and
other vegetative wastes from yard and garden maintenance are rich in
nutrients and organic matter. If discarded in a location where the material
may be washed into the lake, vegetation increases lake sedimentation and
releases plant nutrients upon decomposition. An important BMP is to compost
herbaceous wastes and recycle the composted matter as soil conditioner and
fertilizer. Composting sites should be located a safe distance away from the
lake shore, tributary watercourses, and stormwater drainage systems. Woody
wastes should be chipped and reused as landscaping mulch or disposed of in
an approved municipal brush disposal site.
Urban Runoff - Many types of water pollutants accumulate on
sidewalks, streets, driveways, parking lots, and other paved areas. For
example, leaves and branches, litter and trash, animal excrement, salt and
sand, and fluid leaks from motor vehicles all accumulate during periods of dry
weather. Additionally, wastes such as used motor oil, radiator fluid, grass
clippings, animal wastes, and car wash wastewater may be improperly
discarded down stormwater drains. (See the following information on Car
Washes.) Rainfall and snowmelt runoff easily transports these materials and
contaminates receiving watercourses with organic and inorganic nitrogen,
phosphorus, sediments, decomposable organic matter, hydrocarbons, heavy
metals, pathogenic bacteria and road salts.
13
Many BMPs can be implemented to manage urban runoff. The U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency publication 'Urban Targeting and BMP
Selection' presents an overview of BMPs for urban stormwater management.bas n
BMPs are categorized as source controls, detention basins, Infiltration
and vegetative controls. Source controls include regulatory programs to
control Fitter, to prevent improper disposal or discharge of wastes in stormwater
systems, and to require removal of pet droppings from paved surfaces. Source
controls also involve maintenance of paved surfaces, including street sweeping,
parking lot sweeping, and repair of eroding pavement areas. Every lake
watershed area should employ source control BMPs.
Detention basins temporarily store and partially treat stormwater. Wet
ponds, dry ponds, and roadway catch basins are examples of detention basins
which remove heavy solids and, in some cases, floatable materials from
stormwater. Solids accumulations must be periodically removed from these
structures to maintain effective treatment capability: Routine cleanout of
catch basins by the appropriate public works authorities is an important BMP
in every lake watershed.
E: Infiltration basins intercept overland flow, allowing stormwater to seep into
the ground. Maintainance of the filter medium prevents clogging of
accumulated pollutants. Vegetative controls include naturoi and artificial
strips. These controls provide for the
wetlands, grassed swales, and filter
physical removal of solids, biological degradation of pollutants, and biological
uptake of nutrients. Preservation of wetlands in the lake watershed, in
accordance with Sections 22o-36 through 22a-45 of the General Statutes, is
an important BMP to manage urban runoff in many lake watersheds. (See
Wetlands Protection Section, page 7).
A comprehensive urban runoff plan should be developed for a lake
watershed, identifying and prioritizing measures appropriate for specific sources
of pollutants. Government programs to manage urban runoff are in the early
stages of development, and presently no regulatory and financial framework
addresses the needs of a comprehensive watershed plan. Lake associations
should seek to implement source controls and maintenance programs through
cooperation with local officials and private property owners.
Town planning and zoning regulations requiring stormwater runoff control
plans for proposed developments can be an effective means of implementing
urban runoff management for new sources. Stormwater control measures
should be incorporated into the site development plan so that the appropriate
urban runoff BMPs become an integral component of permitted land use
ocivities at the site.
14
r
Car Washes - Direct discharges of soapy washwater from car washing
to any surface waterbody, including lakes and their tributaries, should be
prevented. Washwaters can transport sand, oil, and phosphorus (from soaps
and detergents), degrading the water quality of the receiving waterbody.
Even non-phosphate 'biodegradable' soaps should not be allowed to enter
surface waters directly as they can be toxic to aquatic organisms at low
concentrations and cause unsightly foaming.
Connecticut law requires that anyone generating vehicle washwater
discharges, regardless of volume or discharge location, first obtain a permit for
the discharge. This includes charity sponsored car washes. However, several
acceptable disposal options for vehicle washwaters generated by individuals
or charity car washes exist and are explained in the DEP's 'Guidance for
Disposal of Vehicle Washwater' available from the Department of
Environmental Protection, Bureau of Water Management, Division of Engineering
and Enforcement, 165 Washington St., Hartford, CT 06106.
The first option is to wash cars in an area where all washwater enters a
municipal sanitary sewer for proper treatment. The second option, for
individual car washing only, is to wash cars in a grassy area large enough to
contain all washwater and then allow it to seep into the soil. Another option
for charity car washes is to have a commercial car wash operator sponsor the
event.
Waterfowl - During the late 1970's, the utilization of lakes by large flocks
of Canada geese emerged as a lake eutrophication issue. At several lakes,
deterioration of summer water quality coincided with the unprecedented
occupancy by large numbers of geese the preceding fall/winter season. The
DEP has found that excrement from Canada geese can be a significant
source of enrichment of lake waters with phosphorus, nitrogen, and
decomposable organic matter.
Summer dissolved oxygen depletion and algae blooms are observed
effects of wintertime geese. At two Connecticut lakes experiencing large
winter flocks, the phosphorus input from the birds was estimated to be
equivalent to 500k to 70% of the annual phosphorus input from the lake
watershed. Similar concerns have been raised about gulls, although no formal
studies have been undertaken.
The presence of geese or gulls at a particular lake in any given year is
related to many factors, including regional weather patterns, local climatic
conditions, availability of food supplies, hunting pressure, and flock behavior
pattems. Some lakes do not attract large numbers of waterbirds, while others
experience high levels of use fairly regularly. Discouraging large flocks of
waterbirds on lakes where they contribute to eutrophication is advised.
15
Methods to accomplish this depend on the individual lake size, type of
bird, proximity of human habitation, and available resources. Constructing
walls or planting a buffer strip of shrubs along the lake shoreline prohibits easy
access in and- out of the water for the geese to feed on lawns, discouraging
geese from using the lake. Hunting may be an effective management
method, although hunting in urban and suburban areas is not a viable option.
Harrassment is another option for keeping nuisance waterfowl off lakes where
they pose a problem. Scarecrows and other foreign objects, automatic
exploders, flashing lights, balloons, and chase dogs have been utilized for this
purpose. Information on methods can be obtained from the U.S. Department
of Agriculture, Animal Damage Control, 463 West Street, Amherst,
Massachusetts, 01022.
Household Pets - Excrement from household pets, especially dogs, is a
source of pollution that should be managed in lake watersheds. Pet manure
contains organic matter, plant nutrients, and bacteria which can transported
from paved surfaces to lake waters by stormwater runoff. An obvious BMP is
to collect and properly dispose of pet droppings.
Some Connecticut towns have adopted zoning ordinances requiring
owners or custodians of dogs to remove feces deposited on town property
and to dispose of the -waste in a sanitary manner. This type of ordinance
should be considered for lake watershed areas. A related BMP is a 'leash law`
ordinance prohibiting pets from roaming unrestrained, thereby reducing the
deposition of wastes in undesireable areas.
Lake Sediments - Sediments on the lake bottom may consume oxygen
from overlying lake waters, and may release phosphorus and nitrogen to
overlying waters. Oxygen depletion may impair cold water fishery habitat, and
recycled nutrients may contribute to nuisance algae blooms. Sediments in
shallow waters may also contain nutrients which support nuisance aquatic
weed growth. Sediments which support weed growth may increase wetlands
beyond natural and encroach on a lake.
Detailed water quality monitoring studies are needed to determine the
relationships between lake sediments and eutrophication problems. Lake
sediments may be a significant non point source of pollution at some
Connecticut lakes. In order to effectively manage eutrophication,
management of lake sediments may be needed in addition to watershed
management. The 'Guide For Connecticut Lakes & Ponds On The Control of
Algae and Aquatic Weeds," is available from the DEP, Bureau of Water
Management, Division of Planning and Standards, to assist lake communities
with in-lake management of eutrophication.
Recreational Beaches - Erosion by wave action and stormwater runoff
may wash sand from recreational beaches into a lake. Lost sand is usually
replaced with new sand, which is subsequently lost and replaced again. As
16
the cycle continues, lost beach sand accelerates the filling-in of the lake,
increasing habitat for nuisance aquatic weeds. Some types of sand may also
cause turbidity and contribute. Beaches should 'be designed to have sand
stabilized by vegetation and/or by retaining walls. Where feasible, dry
dredging should be implemented to recapture sand washed into the lake.
Woodland and Timber Harvesting - An acre of properly managed
woodland in a lake watershed contributes much less phosphorus to the lake
than an acre of residential land in the some location. However, harvesting of
timber for firewood or lumber can potentially cause serious erosion and
sedimentation problems.
Information on tree harvesting and applicable BMPs is available from the
DEP Bureau of Parks & Forests, which distributes a 1990 guide entitled Timber
Harvesting and Water Quality in Connecticut - A Practical Guide For Protecting
Water Quality While Harvesting Forest Products.' Two regional Resource
Conservation and Development Councils in Connecticut provide information,
education, and technical assistance to land owners and loggers.
Town governments can effectively control logging operations. In 1987,
the State Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act was amended, eliminating
the silviculture exemption related to clear cutting in inland wetlands. In
addition, zoning authorities in numerous towns have adopted regulations to
regulate logging activities in uplands as well as wetlands. A lake association
should work with town officials to ensure that local permitting processes
adequately control timber harvesting in the lake watershed.
17
S ,
REFERENCES:
CT, Council on Soil and Water Conservation, 1984. 'Connecticut
Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control'.
CT, DEP, 1991. 'Guide For Connecticut Lakes & Ponds on the Control of
Algae and Aquatic Weeds.
CT, DEP, 1991. 'Manual of Best Management Practices for Agriculture".
CT, DEP, 1987. "Non Point Source Pollution: An Assessment and
Management Plan'.
CT, DEP, 1985. 'Septic Systems Manual: A Guide to On-Site Subsurface
Sewage Disposal for Local Land Use Officials
CT RC & D Forestry Committee, 1990, 'Timber Harvesting & Water Quality
in Connecticut - A Practical Guide for Protecting Water Quality While
Harvesting Forest Products
US, EPA. 'Urban Targeting and Best Management Practice Selection".*
• For copies of this publication, contact The Terrene Institute, 1000
Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 833-3380.
18
WATERSHED RESOURCE MAPS
The first step in developing a lake management program is obtaining
information .about the lake watershed pertinent to existing and potential non
point sources of phosphorus and sediments. Watershed information is available
from a variety of sources which provide baseline information to construct
various lake watershed maps showing features related to watershed
management issues.
Lake Watershed Boundary Map
The Natural Resources Center of DEP has delineated watershed
boundaries on mylar overlays on file at the State Office .Building in Hartford.
Boundary maps for lake watersheds can be traced from the mylar on to U.S.
Geological Survey maps to serve as base maps on which various watershed
characteristics can be portrayed.
Detailed Soils Group Map
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, has
prepared detailed soils maps in cooperation with the Natural Resources Center
of DEP. Mylar overlays on file at - the Natural Resources Center can be
transferred onto a watershed boundary map. Soils maps can be used to
evaluate the suitability of watershed land for on-site sewage disposal (septic
systems) and the erosion potential of watershed land. Technical assistance
may be needed to properly interpret the soils information.
Wetlands Maps
Connecticut legally defines inland wetlands in terms of soil drainage class
- as either poorly drained or very poorly drained - and by the position of soils
within a basin - as either alluvial or floodplain. Each town has a map of the
legally defined wetlands within its boundary titled "Official Wetlands Map", or,
if it includes watercourses, 'Official Wetlands and Watercourses Map.'
Further wetlands information can be obtained from the national wetlands
inventory, an effort which detailed the type and extent of Zarious wetland
vegetation on mylar overlays. These maps can be obtained from the Natural
Resources Center.
19
Flood Zone Maps
Towns have flood insurance rate maps, showing 100-year flood
boundaries. Development in these flood zones is regulated but not prohibited.
Land Use Maps
In 1976 and 1977, the regional plat land use. dated me 980nthese
d use
maps with fifteen different categories o P
maps are on file at Regional Planning Agency offices on mylar overlays. A
watershed land use map can be constructed by tracing this information onto
a lake watershed boundary map. Land use can be roughly updated to 1990,
through visual inspection of 1990 aerial photographs, available at the Natural
Resources Center, or field observations.
Other sources of land use information are town planning and zoning
commissions. Maps showing commercial, industrial, and residential zones are
available at the town offide building.
Open Space Maps
A map of Connecticut showing state, federal and municipal land
unavailable for development is available from the Natural Resources Center.
20
CONNECTICUT LAKES MANAGEMENT GRANT PROGRAM
Many watershed management activities are eligible for cost sharing
under a grant program established by Section 22a-339 of the Connecticut
General Statutes. This program specifically addresses the issue of lake
eutrophication in Connecticut's recreational lakes. Towns, lake authorities, and
certain lake associations are eligible to apply for grants. Lake and ponds
which qualify for grants are those which provide recreation for the general
public through state access or through access owned or leased by the
applicant. Grant applications are required to provide specific baseline
information and water quality data for the lake. DEP has conducted baseline
studies for most lakes with state access (see list of lakes with state access on
page 27). Applicants may independently conduct baseline studies.
Two types of grants are provided, diagnostic/feasibility study grants and
eutrophication abatement grants. A diagnostic/feasibility study characterizes
water quality conditions, identifies watershed sources of nutrients and
sediments, and evaluates corrective actions. Eutrophication abatement grants
fund the implementation of the actions recommended by a
diagnostic/feasibility study to prevent, reduce, or correct eutrophication.
The state grant is 750k of the cost of a diagnostic feasibility study and
50°k of the cost of eutrophication abatement activities. If federal funds are
received, the federal grant for a study is 70% and the state grant is 20%; the
federal grant for eutrophication abatement is 50% and the state grant is 25°k.
Complementary federal lakes management grants may be available
under section 314 of the Clean Water Act. National funding levels and
eligibility requirements may change from year to year. Applicants wishing to
seek federal funds must comply with applicable federal regulations.
21
RESOURCE AGENCIES
State and Federal
Department of Environmental Protection
State Office Building
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, Connecticut 06106
Bureau of Water Management
Division of Planning and Standards
(566-2588)
Division of Inland Water Resource Management
(566-7280)
Bureau of Fisheries & Wildlife
Division of Inland Fisheries
(566-4477)
Bureau of Environmental Services
Natural Resources Center (Maps and Publications)
(566-7719)
Connecticut Council on Soil & Water Conservation
State Office Building
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, Connecticut 06106
(566-3540)
USDA Soil Conservation Service
Mansfield Professional Park
Storrs, Connecticut 06268
(429-9361)
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station
123 Huntington Street
New Haven, Connecticut 06054
(789-7272)
22
U.S. Geological Survey
450 Main Street
Hartford, Connecticut 06103 ,
(240-3060)
U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
Animal Damage Control
463 West Street
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 253-2403
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Branch
424 Tropelo Road
Waltham, Massachusetts 02254
(617) 647-8338
23
REGIONAL PLANNING AGENCIES IN CONNECTICUT
Capitol Region Council of Govts. Northeastern CT Council
221 Main Street of Govts.
Hartford, CT 06106 10 Wouregan Road
(203) 522-2217 Brooklyn, CT 06234
(203) 774-1253
Central CT Regional Planning Agency Northwestern CT Council
225 North Main Street of Govts.
P.O. Box 1880 Sackett Hill Road
Bristol, CT 06010 Warren, CT 06754
(203) 589-7820 (203) 868-7341
Council of Govts. of Central South
Central
Regional
e Governments
Naugatuck Valley Council of
20 East Main Street 23 Peck Street
Waterbury, CT 06702 North Haven, CT 06473
(203) 757-0535 (203) 234-7555
-CT River Estuary Reg'I Planning Agency Southeastern CT Reg'I 455
Boston Post Road Planning Agency
P.O. Box 778 139 Boswell Avenue
Old Saybrook, CT 06475 Norwich, CT 06360
(203) 388-3497 (203) 889-2324
Greater Bridgeport Regional Southwestern Regional
Planning Agency Planning Agency
Bridgeport Transportation Center 213 Uberty Square
525 Water Street East Norwalk, CT 06855
Bridgeport, CT 06604 (203) 866-5543
(203) 366-5405
Housatonic Valley Council of Valley Regional Planning
Elected Officials Agency
Old Town Hall - Rte #25 Derby Station, 12 Main
Brookfield Center, CT 06805 Derby, CT 06418
(203) 775-6256 (203) 735-8688
24
V
Midstate Regional Planning Agency Windham Regional
100 DeKoven Drive Planning Agency
P.O. Box 139 968 Main Street
Middletown, CT 06457 Willimantic, CT 06226
(203) 347-7214 (203) 456-2221
Litchfield Hills Council of Elected
Officials
42 North Street
P.O. Box 187
Goshen, CT 06756-9723
(203) 491-9884
STATE COORDINATOR OF REGIONAL PLANNING ORGANIZATIONS:
Andrea Pereira Regional Planning Coordinator
CT Office of Policy and Management
80 Washington Street '.
Hartford, CT 06106-4459
(203) 566-8398
25
COUNTY OFFICES
USDA Soil Conservation Service, District Conservationist (SCS)
Soil and Water Conservation Districts (S&WCD's)
UConn Cooperative Extension Service Extension Agents (UCONN)
Fairfield County SCS, S&WCD Windham County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Agricultural Center UConn Extension Center
67 Stony Hill Road P.O. Box 112
Bethel, Connecticut 06801 139 Wolf Den Road
774-6108 Brooklyn, CT 06234
774-9600 or 774-0224
Hartford County SCS, S&WCD Tolland. County SCS, S&WCD
Agricultural Center UConn Agricultural Center
627 River Rd. 24 Hyde Avenue
Windsor, Connecticut Vernon, CT 06066
688-7725 875-3331
Litchfield County SCS, S&WCD
Litchfield Agricultural Center
Litchfield, Connecticut 06759
567-9019
Middlesex County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Extension Center
Saybrook Road
Haddam, Connecticut 06438
345-4511
New Haven County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Extension Service
322 North Main Street
Wallingford, Connecticut 06492
269-7509
New London County SCS, S&WCD
UConn Extension Service
562 New London Turnpike
Norwich, Connecticut 06360
887-4163
26
CONNECTICUT LAKE TROPHIC CONDITIONS
o e owns Surface
Area
(Acres)
OLIGOTROPHIC
Bashan East Haddam 276.3
Beach Pond Voluntown 394.3
Billings North Stonington 105.1
Mashapaug Lake Union - 297.1
Riga Lake Salisbury 169.5
Uncas Lake Lyme 69.0
West Hill Pond New Hartford 238.0
EARLY MESOTROPHIC
Bigelow Pond Union 18.5
Candlewood Lake New Fairfield, 5,420
Sherman, New Milford,
Danbury & Brookfield
Columbia Lake Columbia 277.2
Coventry take Coventry 378.0
Cream Hill Pond Cornwall 72.0
Dodge Pond East Lyme 33.0
East Twin Lake Salisbury 562.3
Higganum Reservoir Haddam 32.0
Killingly Pond Killingly 137.5
Mohawk Pond Goshen 15.2
Mt. Tom Pond Litchfield, Morris & 61.5
Washington
Norwich Pond Lyme 27.5
Pachoug Pond Griswold 830.9
Pattaconk Reservoir Chester 55.5
Rogers Lake Lyme & Old Lyme 264.9
S. Spectacle Lake Kent 93.0
a
27
Wouregan Reservoir Killingly 68.0
Lake Winchester Winchester 229.0
Wyassup Lake North Stonington 92.4
MESOTROPHIC
Lake Alexander Killingly 190.4
Anderson's Pond North Stonington 54.3
Ball Pond New Fairfield 89.9
Black Pond Woodstock 73.4
Lower Bolton Lake Bolton & Vernon 178.4
Burr Pond Torrington 85.6
Cedar Lake Chester 68.0
Crystal Lake Ellington & Stafford 200.9
Gardner Lake Salem, Montville & 486.8
Bozrah 184.2
Glasgo Pond Griswold
Gorton's Pond East Lyme &3.0
Green Falls Reservoir Voluntown 46.9
Halls Pond Ashford & Eastford 82.3
Hatch Pond Kent 61.0
Highland Lake Winchester 444.0
Little (Schoolhouse) Thompson 65.4
Pond 40.0
Morey Pond Ashford, Union
Park Pond Winchester 76.7
Pataganset Lake East Lyme 123.0
Lake Pocotopaug East Hampton 511.7
Powers Lake East Lyme 152.6
Quaddick Reservoir Thompson 466.8
Lake Quassapaug Middlebury 271.0
Quonnipaug Lake Guilford . 111.6
Shenipsit Lake Vernon, Ellington & 522.8
Tolland
Terramuggus Lake Marlborough 83.0
Tyler Lake Goshen 1 .
West Side Pond Goshen 424
352.E
Lake Wononscopomuc Salisbury
Wrights Pond Westbrook, Essex & 37.0
Deep River
28
• r
LATE MESOTROPHIC
Beseck Lake Middlefield 119.6
Black Pond Meriden & Middlefield 75.6
Middle Bolton Lake Vernon 114.9
Fitchville Pond Bozrah 7,1.1
Lake Hayward East Haddam 198.9
Hitchcock Lake Wolcott 118.4
Long Pond Ledyard-& North 98.6
Stonington
Mamanasco Lake Ridgefield 95.0
Moodus Reservoir East Haddam 451.0
Mudge Pond Sharon 201.0
Squantz Pond New Fairfield & 288.0
Sherman
Taunton Pond Newtown 126.0
Lake Waramaug Warren, Washington 680.2
& Kent
EUTROPHIC
Amos Lake Preston 105.1
Aspinook Pond Lisbon & Canterbury 333.3
Avery Pond Preston 50.6
Bantam Lake Litchfield & Morris 916.0
Batterson Park Pond Farmington & New 162.7
Britain
Crystal Lake Middletown 35.5
Dog Pond Goshen 71.3
Eagleville Lake Mansfield 80.0
Lake Housatonic Shelton 328.2
Howell Pond Hartland 17.3
Lake Kenosia Danbury 56.0
Leonard Pond Kent 15.0
Lake Lillinonah Southbury, 1,900
Bridgewater, Brookfield
& Newtown
Linsley Pond Norfh Branford & 23.3
Branford
Long Meadow Pond Bethlehem 11.7
Moosup Pond_ Plainfield 97.2
Rainbow Reservoir Windsor 235.0
Red Cedar Lake Lebanon 141.0
Roseland Lake Woodstock 88.0
Lake Wononpakook Salisbury 164.0
Lake Zoar Newtown, Monroe, 975.0
Oxford & Southbury
29
i
HIGHLY EUTROPHIC
Beachdale Pond Voluntown 46.0
Cedar Pond North Branford 21.8
Dooley's Pond Middletown 28.0
Hanover Pond Meriden 73.0
Holbrook 'Pond Hebron 72.5
Hopeville Pond Griswold 149.4
Lake of Isles North Stonington 87.1
Lantern Hill Pond Ledyard & North 15.1
Stonington
Messerschmidts Pond Westbrook & Deep 70.0
River
North Farms Reservoir Wallingford 62.5
Pickerel Lake Colchester 88.6
Silver Lake Berlin & Meriden 151.0
West Thompson Lake Thompson 195.0
Lake Winnemaug Watertown 120.0
Wood Creek Pond Norfolk 151.0
1860 Reservoir Wethersfield 35.0
30
AFISHPOND is a delightful part of a farm or ranch. flog
Where a good site exists For a pond, it makes good use
of the {and. The impounded water often has other uses too.
It adds beauty to the Fans and provides recreation For Farmers,
ranchers, and their Friends.
Fishponds are profitable when they are managed well. To
produce the most income and home use,they must afford good
ills '
Fishing year after year. Most disappointments result from for Bass and Blu�
mistakes in management. By VERVE E. DAVISON.biologist,Soil C«,sasaaon Semim
This bulletin points out the importance of good sites and the
necessity for erosion control; proper stocking, and weed con-
FISHPONDs are accepted more and and provide swimming, boating, and
trot. It tells how to have good fishing by ample fertilization. more as profitable and delightful other recreation. For many pond
It also explains the treatment of some common pond troubles. features of farms and ranches. They owners,the sale of permits for fishing
By Following these essential guides, you can be assured of a make good use and safe use of the is a source of income.
land basic steps in the conservation Many farms and ranches have a
lasting pond that may be fished many times a year. of soil and water. Good fishponds .suitable site for a good fishpond. .
This bulletin supersedes Fanners' Bulletin 1983, Farm Fish- expand the farm economy and furnish Some have two or even several sites.
. food to both rural and urban fisher- All ponds will produce some fish.
ponds For Food and Good Land Use.
people—men, women, and children They will produce more if they are
alike, They can also furnish water built right and managed right. They
for livestock and for fire protection should free of waterweeds and CONTENTS page
Pogs ,
Selecting the site................................ 4
Building the pond.............. ................ 2
Controlling erosion and runoff ................
4 - • „
Stocking with fish................ ................
7
Using Fertilizer...•••••••••••• • •• •• - ir
When to fertilize............ .................. 8
Kind of fertilizer.................
Howmuch fertilizer......... . ..................
How to apply fertilizer......................... 10
Waterweeds and their control.....•••••••••••••• 10 _ -- =-
Fishing the pond..... ................ --
Controlling size of fish......-••••• ............••
When to begin fishing a new pond ....••••••••••• 15
How hard to Fish........... ... .. .............. 16 ——Use the baits you like best.. .• . . ........ ...••••• 17s 1
Troublesand treatments..... . . . .............•••••• 18 -
Washington, D. C. Issued November 1955
Fishponds make good use of land.
1
size of the watershed, and the width escape even in shallow flows throw*h
less fish. And the watershed above ically. Too much water washes the of the flood spillway- the spillway,but they will be replaced
-the pond should be protected with fertilized water out through the spill- Before you build a dam from the by thousands more.
soil conservation measures that con- way. ground , you must build a part of Shallow water at the edges is trouble-
trol erosion and runoff. A site where water can be impounded it from the ground level down. Be- some. It grows too manv weeds,and
A high Melding fishpond is a corn- successfully. Sufficient depth for the low the surface,you may have gravel it protects too many little fish from
bination of the waters natural pro- pond, suitable soil, and a good Site beds or lavers of sand and sometimes the bass. Very few pounds of fish
ductivity, added fertility when for the dam are necessary factors. old logs or other organic matter. are yroduced in shallow water.
needed, and man's management. In the South, a depth of 4 feet is These are porous and would allow I on can get rid of shallow water
Your pond can be one that is easy sufficient if the water level can be water to seep rapidly beneath the by digging the edges deeper or by
to manage or one that cannot be expected to remain constant, but 6 dam, A core trench is needed to cut filling them in. Usually, a combina-
managed well with any amount of feet or more is usually better. In the off�� page, tion of these two methods is best. A
effort. The difference is in the site Central States, a pond should be 8 The trench should be the full minimum depth of 18 to 24 inches is
you select. and the way you band to 10 feet deep. In the North,make length of the dam, and d down to good,but 3.feet is better.
our pond much
watertight soil. It may 4 feet You can managey po
Ton WIDTH wide or as wide as the machine cuts. more easily if you eliminate all shallow
ABOVEHEIGHT-� -- You can blow out the trench with water. Gettingrid of shallow places
WATER LINE— oowwsTREaw stronE dynamite if the site is too wet and is worth more than it costs.
soft for machinery. Then fill the All arm and brush should be cut
SLOPE trench with the same kind of soil you from the area to be covered with
uPSTREaM
"EIGHT use
trench and dam become one solid fi1L removed from the dam site. If pos-
Tp d spfflimys are necessary for Bible, also remove the stumps and
sorron WIDTH fishponds. When the flow of water Ina from the pond bottom, cope-
through the spillway is more than 6 cially where the depth is to he less than
-GORE TRENCH inches deep,many of your usable-size S feet. This leaves the bottom smooth
fish will escape. Even so,do not use for Seining, an important activity
a screen across the spillway. It will in management.
B.qd o sok dos, egged with fine trash, stop the A st�'p 20 to 30 feet back from the
it. After that, it still deeper to protect the fish from ow, and endanger the dam. Of pond edge should be cleared of all
the Eld and stock course, thousands of little fish will trees and brush. This reduces the
g nag em is the key to suc- freezing in winter. fall of leaves into the pond, and
o production of bass and blue- Before you build a pond, make enables you to have a band
gibe—and to satisfactory behmg--n Sure your Soil will hold water against around the pond from w 'ch to fish.
your farm or ranch pond. excessive Seepages The soil must he A drainpipe is P71ic-health
ired by law in
suitable for the pond bottom as well many States as a meas-
$s{eding the Sits as for the dam. Your local soil con- ure. In others, it is a matter of
servation district will help you check T choice. A drainpipe does have value.
There are two important things to your watershed and Select a suitable If you have a heavy rain while the
consider when you select a fishpond site. dam is being built, a drainpipe will
site, protect it. Drainpipes are also useful
A oatprable sjm• A Building the Pond To AVOID WEED PROBLEM for removing troublesome fish popula-
site fora good pond has a rela- IN SHALLOW WATER tjo�, It is often, however, more
tively small watershed from which The best ponds require careful economical to kill all the fish without
little runoff water and silt will enter attention to the items that follow. draining off the water,especially When
the pond. There must be a satis- Your local soil conservation district water is not available for refilling
factory supply of water—a small technician will help you with them. quickly.
spnag flow or enough silt-free runoff A safe dam has a top width of at An overflow pipe or trickle tube
to fill the pond and replenish the least 10 feet. This width makes the ��, FILL HERE controls the normal water level of
water lost by seepage and evapora- dam safe from muskrats which are the pond and allows the regular over-
likely to burrow into it. And it gives flow to escape without drowning the
to fill the pond in a year or less. On a good roadway for crossing• A safe REMOVE SOIL TO DEEPEN grass in the flood spillway. It may
the other hand,if the flow is so large dam must also have adequate bottom be connected to the drainpipe or the
that it fills the pond in less than a width, side slopes, and height above Deepen dwllow, eprroblems avoid woterwesd trickle tube may he built separately.
month,you cannot fertilize it econom- water. These depend on kind of soil, 3
4
Const umon cork should leave the The soil conservationist m vonr =t: rs' :z' =Y =T_'�>s_ >__=_:=_ -
attractive. Do not mar its district may suggest a diversion ditch ` �`
pond
.beauty by excavating soil from above and dike to carry floodwater and
the
waterline, except for the flood muddy water around your pond __ _ `'""° •
sp�lway or in a carefully selected where erosion and runoff cannot be = '"_ _ :'_-_ -
"borrow pit." controlled. He can also show you
how to bring more water into vous •.
pond if your natural watershed is � �
Controlling Erosion and Runoff too small. = -
The life of vow pored depends Roads are serious sources of both • ' ��, � ,'i--��� -� y ' {
largely on whether the land above the muddy water and silt. Road water
pond is protected from soil erosion. should he diverted wherever possible. �r..-
The work and expense of building the Beeping farm roads on the contour
mstocking it with fish,and man- and protecting the roadsides with a
it will be wasted Mess the vegetative cover help to control
natashed is protected. Silt fills a eroson. ��■�, �' _ \• \,�—
pond. Muddy water reduces fish As soon as your dam is completed, -
Floodwater replaces,fa• you should get some kind of vegeta-
iiiised water
and may carry your Lion growing on it. Be sm+e to a
usable-size fish out thmugh the good grass sod established quiddy m
spillway. All of these problems am the spillway too. Usually, a straw
be reduced or eliminated by soil and or grass maleh wSII be needed on the'"'
water conservation measures. side of the api'Ilway that is into -
1 good vegetative cover
the soil and holds it in place. It also Whether or not to fence livestock Sob as tea pond
redacts runoff by allowing more of the away from yoia pond is a quesrian
rain to soak into the soil. you most decide. Grazing animate
help control weeds and grass along factonly tunless they have small fish,
- . the water's edge, thus saving band such as bluegills,to feed upon.
work. On the other hand, fencing Cold-water ponds are scarcely suit-
es better sanitation and leas mud- able for bass and bluegills. The
of the water. If livestock bloegins spawn over too short a
the whole pond by wading,. period to leed bass well. Rainbow -
- -r---
___ ���.•_�� � yore must fence them out is order to or brook trout are usnaIly grown is
fertilize successfully- spring fed ponds or other cold water
' ponds. Trost do well in waters with
Stocking With Fish temperatines rep to 75o F.
- Many pond owners want catfish,
A fishpond,must be stocked nor- crappie, and other kinds of fish is
-.i rectly and with the right kinds of their farm fishponds. These and
fish if it is to provide good fishing most of the other desirable American
quickly and continuously. species have been tried in various
A combination of large-mouth bass combinations at the Alabama Agri-.
and bluegills is dependable for warm- cultural Research Station. These
- _ water ponds larger than 1/4 acre. If experiments Showed- that the bass-
_ the surface temperature often reaches bhugill combination produces the
850 F. or higher during the summer, best fishing and the most pcimds of
von have a warm water pored. Blue- fish per acre with the least trouble.
' '-• gills spawn frequently all summer in Other species were seldom sucxessfuL
these warm waters. The bass feed Crappie and catfish can he stocked
largely on little fish, including their with the bass and bluegills in large
own young- Thus, they help pn- "imgation reservoirs," such as those
vent overpopulation in the pond. in the rice area of Arkansas, Louisi-
Eioding land ruins pond waters Large-mouth bass do not grow satis- ana, Mississippi, and Texas. The
4 5
due to your failure to follow the fully. Use a minnow seine at the
itv. With these stocking rates, von instructions given by the hatchery or edge soon after hat one or July
- sliould produce about 4 pounds of to some contamination in the vessel or May in the South,
bluegills to each pound of bass. you take to meet the hatchery truck. in the North to test this. If you
Bluegills should weigh from 3 to 6 You may have a partial or complete catch small bass in the tee+ you
: ounces each and bass from 12 ounces die off' as a result of nowng by bass stocking is Bluegilis
to 1 and when you begin fishing 12 po
to 18 months after • h These insecticides such as DDT,tozaphene, seldom fail-
aldrin,or chlordane, used on nearby If you fail to catch small bass
-'"'- stocking rates are intend to give cps, Or losses may result from a after this all important spawning
the usable-size fish 75 percxat or more low oxygen ��t of the water. If season, you have trouble. Your
of the pond's fish food,thus prevent- you see the fish n distress, you may bass binegill weight ratio is not right,
ing an overpopulation of smaller fish- slave them by immediately applying and you need a new stocking of bass.
in the succeeding years. SO to 100 pounds of hospttg. You may need to kill all the fish and
In the Western States succeesfal per sore. The tn�rp�hate en- begin again-
8os blds�lb errs best fertilization is not well developed for ables the nuaroscopic plants to begin
either cold waters or highly alkaline growth and give off oxygen,. thus Using Fertilizer
waters. Until the correct chemistry aerating the water. Other accidents
is worked out for these waters, and and d � occasionally upset the High fertility of pond water aceom-
fish population diminishes as the their potential yields are measured, storing o f ponds. If you lose more fishes three desirable objectives:
water is lowered in summer, but the stocking rates remain uncertain. than half of the pond's poundage, it (pl) increases fish production and
fish grow rapidly again when the Socking The usual practice is best to 11 the reniaimng fish and makes it possible to .catch more
reservoir is refilled. You do not is to binegills any time from . fish; (2) makes possible one standard .
have this essential control of crappie Aft to January, preferably as Therefore,you anxiously await the rate of stocking fish;and(3)prevents
ana catfish in the usual fishpond. early as k. Stock base the l you bass are 1 year old. the growth of submerged waterwee&
Carp,catfish,or buffalo are stocked nestApril,May,or June—as is well, may, will High fertility increases fish pro-
alone or together in some warm- soon as the new hatches are large spawn and batch their young sneeees- duictwn- Fishing waters need enough
water ponds with varying success. enough to transfer from the hatchery.
One method is to obtain usable-sine Blue stocked between January
fish from large seining operations, and JJul7 seldom produce good.fishing-
haul them sometimes long distances, Avoid or kill all twtive (wild) fishand dump them in the pond for im. before stoking. Native or wild fish
mediate fishing at a small fee per day. will populate your pond before hatch-
A more productive method is.to grow ery fish arrive if you have a pair or - - -
fingerling catfish, buffalo, or carp to two in the pond during the summer. -
market size in ponds that are drained And if you put in a few adult blue-
and restocked annually or more often. gills ahead of stocking,they will over. _
In rice-growing areas, this method populate the pond too. In other -_
may he used in a rotation with rim words,you cannot expect good fishing
Here are the essential things you if you let nature tock your pond.
need to know about stocking your pond that becomes seriously over. FXEr
pond with bass and bluegills: stocked can be prepared for correctStocking rates. If too many fish stocking by ks11�ng all the fish with
are stocked,there will not be enough rotenone. You will need 3 pounds of
food for each to reach usable size. 5-percent rotenone for each acre-foot era'i
The stocking rate, therefore, affects of water. Most State laws govern
the size of fish and the success of the use of fish poisons. Therefore,
you may need a permit from your
fishA g d stocking rate for bass and State Fisheries Division
bluegill ponds is 1,000 to 1,500 blue- Be sure your stocking is success �' _ _- -_
gills and 100 to 150 large-mouth bass before You begin fishing Pond- M,
per surface acre for well-fertilized You cannot be certain that your -
Ponds,or 500 bluegilh and 50 bass for stocking is successful until you have _ f _ wmow
Ponds of average fertility. Even proof that all is well. Fish from the _
this lower stocking rate is too high hatchery occasionally arrive at the Check your bass hatch with a minnow seine.
for ponds of less than average fertil- pond in poor condition. This may be
7
6 3s=o-Ws 2
Biological Sciences • Natural Resources 9 INFORMATION BULLETIN 116 •. 80 CENTS
AN EXTENSION PUBLICATION OF THE NEW YORK STATE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND LIFE SCIENCES,
A STATUTORY COLLEGE OF THE STATE UNIVERSITY, CORNELL UNIVERSITY, ITHACA, NEW YORK
;��-,yam -- -• ,
ys }W.�nr1w {l:;L'�i fj i�ri;�tfr 9r ;:0.G..I ..r �• t�w i � :�i :..i�'kr�e�.y .5�6'Y�'1:t �� - .- •4.1
s
dl IL
4
f• ,
p •' yr. k �''k j 2• yr 1. � - L , + _. "ry.'���`�.t ,,fF
(•,G'� ��' � +fir ,x�•. it'' ti
y/�,�.�j "!• gyp} ! 14.
1'
Authors Contents
A.W. Eipper,formerly an asso- 3 Kind of fish to stock
ciate professor of fishery biology 5 Pond location and construction features
at Cornell University, is presently
Region 5 Power Plant Siting Co- 7 Stocking regulations and sources of fish
ordinator with the U.S. Fish and 8 Biology and management of trout ponds
Wildlife Service. H. A. Regier is
professor of zoology at the Uni- 12 Biology and management of bass-shiner ponds
versity of Toronto. 14 Biology and management of bass-bluegill ponds
16 Biology and management of other species
The authors gratefully ac- 17 Pond maintenance
knowledge the help rendered by
many colleagues and assistants 20 Regional Fish Managers and Game Managers of the New
in various phases of work leading York State Department of Environmental Conservation
to publication of this bulletin.
Particular thanks go to S. B.
Saila, D. A.Webster, H. B. Bruin-
sted, C. A. Cariozz, W. H. Wolf-
rum, E. P. Snyder, and R. W.
Wahl and to the many fish pond
owners who cooperated in the
investigation. Financial support Would you like our free
was provided by federal funds catalog of extension publi-
made available under the Dingell- cations? Send to:
Johnson Act and Hatch Act, by Mailing Room
the New York State Department Building 7, Research Park
of Environmental Conservation, Cornell University
and the New York State Conser- Ithaca, New York 14853
vation Council..Small portions of
the text originally appeared in
The New York State Conserva-
tionist.
t�
2
Fish Management
in
New York Ponds
There are more than 40,000 otherwise,they should be stocked make one pencil-sized hole in the
ponds in New York State and with fish that thrive in warmer top of a quart can of motor oil,
new ones are being constructed water. The only warm-water empty and wash it out. Punch
at the rate of about 1,000 a year. species recommended at present three very small holes in the top
Of the various pond uses, fishing are a combination of largemouth rim of the can and attach a wire
is one of the most popular be- bass and golden shiners or a com- bridle for suspending it,as shown.
cause it provides recreation for bination of bass and bluegill sun- Use an unframed thermometer
the whole family, and the fish fish.This section discusses some with the degrees on the thermom-
caught are tasty and nutritious. of the factors that might influence eter stem itself.' Insert the ther-
The purpose of this publication the pond owner's choice between mometer through the hole in the
is to discuss: trout and warm-water species. can and secure it with a rubber
• Factors to consider in decid- band to suspend the bulb in the
ing which fish species to Water temperature lower part of the can without its
stock. For trout, it. is important that touching the sides. Obtain a
• Design and construction fea- bottom water in the pond remains stout bamboo pole 15 feet long
tures particularly important cool, for bass, shiners, and blue- and attach a 10-foot length of
in fish ponds. gills, it is Important that surface heavy twine connecting the bridle
• Where and how to obtain fish water becomes warm. to the end of the pole, as illus-
for a pond. Survival of trout in New York trated.
• Growth, survival, reproduc- ponds is influenced more by max- Fill the can with water to make
tion, and yield that can be imum summer water temperature it sink. With the pole, hold the
expected from a fish pond in than by any other factor. can out over the deepest part of
New York. Although pond trout can with- the pond (usually about 16 It out
• Management practices for stand water temperatures as high from the middle of the dike) and
obtaining satisfactory fishing as 800 F.for periods of one or two lower it to the bottom. Leave the
from your pond. days, prolonged periods of water can on the bottom for at least
Information presented here is temperature above 74°F. will three hours to allow the water in
based largely on results of 12 cause trout to die. Whether a It to reach the temperature of its
years' work on more than. 150 pond will be suitable for trout de- surroundings. Then carefully
ponds in Central New York State. pends chiefly on how long the raise the can to the surface, dis-
The recommendations given coolest water, near the pond bot- turbing the water in it as little as
should apply to ponds across New tom, remains above 740 F. for any possible. Bring the can to shore
York that have surface areas up one period. and read the thermometer im-
to 2 acres and maximum depths Bottom water temperature, mediately, keeping the bulb well
of 7 to 15 feet. which may differ.from that of the immersed in the can of water.
surface by as much as 120 F., Taking a series of bottom water
Kind of Fish to Stock can be measured accurately with temperatures during the last two
a maximum-minimum thermom-
Ponds can be used for trout if eter or with a glass thermometer +Thermometers of this kind are stocked
the water does not become too suspended in a tin can (fig. 1). or can be ordered at hardware and photo-
warm during summer months; To suspend the thermometer, graphic supply stores.
3
{
Figure 1. Temperature of the
pond's deepest water can be ac-
curately measured with thermom-
eter suspended in an empty oil
can. See directions in text.
1,
1
t _ k
tsc. !
or three weeks of July will give whose surface temperatures almost any year.'Many ponds fed
you an idea of what to expect seldom, if ever, rise above 72°F.; entirely by runoff water from the
from your pond. trout should be stocked in all of surrounding watershed are ex-
Satisfactory growth and repro- these.Cool-water ponds are those cellent trout producers, although
duction of warm-water species whose bottom temperatures rise trout survival in these ponds may
occur when the surface water of above 740 F. for only short pert- be poor in unusually hot sum-
the pond becomes warm enough. ods and whose surface tempera- mers. in ponds fed entirely by
For bass and shiners the tempera- tures exceed 720 F. for periods of runoff water,chances of summer
ture should be above 72°F. and several weeks but only Infre- trout mortality are less in those
for bluegills 8011F. for several quently reach 800 F. or above; located at higher elevations, in
weeks each summer. New York trout or the bass-shiner combina- those having a maximum depth
ponds probably never' get too tion will do well in these. Warm- of at least 10 feet, and in those
warm for these species.To deter- wafer ponds are those whose sur- ponds that receive some shade.
mine a pond's suitability for face temperatures remain above In a pond where bluegills are
warm-water species, the owner 800 F. for considerable periods desired, springs will be a liability
should measure surface tempera- In' summer; these should be if they cool the water enough to
tures periodically during the stocked with the bass-shiner or retard or prevent their spawning.
summer. This can be done by bass-bluegill combination.
placing a thermometer In undis- Pond size
turbed water, 12 inches below It is practical to use ponds as
the surface, but not touching the Source of water small as one-tenth acre (surface
bottom. Read the thermometer, If a pond has a permanent sup- area) for trout, because these
still immersed, after about five ply of spring water—that is, if fish can be stocked at high rates.
minutes. there is some water running out The bass-shiner combination will
New York ponds can be divided of the pond at all times—and the thrive in ponds of one-fourth acre
into three groups according to pond has a maximum depth of at and even one-sixth acre if the
their summer water tempera- least eight feet, then it is prac- pond has an average depth of four
tures.Cold-water ponds are those tically certain to support trout in feet or more. Usually the bass-
I 4
bluegiil combination should be 20 to 40 pounds per acre(depend- best to begin with trout; because
stocked only in ponds larger than ing on the number stocked), and pond trout are short-lived and
one-half acre. This combination bass-shiner ponds can provide almost never reproduce, it is easy
may succeed in a pond as small as bass harvests averaging about 25 to switch from trout to bass-shin-
one-third acre it the pond has all pounds per acre per year. Bass- ers whenever you wish. On the
the recommended construction bluegiil populations can support other hand, once warm-water
features and can be carefully average harvests of about 15 species are established in the
managed. pounds of bass and 35 pounds of pond, it is impossible to change
bluegills per year. over to trout without first killing
Effect of water plants Although trout and bass ponds off the entire warm-water popu-
Water plants become a problem are more commonly underfished lation by draining or by using
in most ponds if they are not con- than overfished, it is still possible chemicals, either of which may
trolled periodically by chemical to"fish out"trout and bass. fish- present difficulties.
or mechanical means. The own- ing quality usually deteriorates If you have a warm-water pond,
er's choice of fish may be influ- fairly rapidly in a pond that is stock either bass and shiners or
enced by the amount of time and subject to uncontrolled fishing. bass and bluegills. The bass-
money he or she can spend on shiner combination usually pro-
control. Information on the con Main drawbacks with each duces more bass fishing (but
trot of large plants and algae in stocking method only bass fishing) and requires
farm ponds is available in Cornell Trout seldom reproduce in farm less management. Bass-bluegiil
Information Bulletin 107, Aquatic ponds, seldom survive beyond ponds provide fishing for two
Plant Management and Control. three or four years, and usually species, but are usually more
In trout and in bass-shiner must be restocked every two years time-consuming 'to manage. In
ponds, moderate amounts of to maintain satisfactory fishing. ponds smaller than one-half acre,
plants (covering up to one-fourth In bass-shiner ponds, shiners bluegiil numbers may be very
of the pond's surface area) seem usually become extinct during the difficult to control.
to increase-fish production. How- first five years after stocking.
ever, most biologists recommend Smaller bass then tend to become pond Location and
that a bass-bluegill pond be too numerous and stunted. If this
kept free of plants, and thus the occurs,some of the smaller bass Construction Features
bass-bluegill pond owner must (between 8 and 10 inches) must The importance of proper loca-
usually practice more intensive be harvested. tion, design, and construction of
control. If the pond is overflow- In bass-bluegill ponds,bluegills any pond cannot be overempha-
ing, a permit must be obtained usually produce more young than sized. Technical assistance on
for the use of any weed control the bass will eat. Biuegiil growth these matters can be obtained
chemical. rates then decrease.if too many of from the Soil Conservation Ser-
the smaller bluegills are present, vice, and other aid may be avail-
Kind of fishing provided fishing deteriorates;moreover the able through the Agricultural Sta-
Trout, bass-shiner, and bass- bass population may suffer from bilization and Conservation
bluegiil ponds differ somewhat biuegill competition for food and Program. Every prospective pond
in the kind of fishing they pro- space. Crowded bluegill popula- owner should consult the county
vide. Because pond trout are us- tions need to be thinned by trap- agricultural agent for specific
ually hard to catch during the ping or seining; it may even be information on the pond services
summer months,trout ponds offer necessary to drain or poison the available in the county and on the
most fishing during the fail, pond and begin again: design and construction of ponds.
winter,and spring.Bass and blue- The following discussion is
gills provide most fishing during Which species should you stock? limited to those aspects of the lo-
the spring and summer months. If yours is a cold-water pond, cation and construction of ponds
Under New York conditions the stock trout. of particular importance in fish
difference in total pounds of fish If you have a cool-water pond, management.
produced with the three types of stock either trout or the bass-
stocking described here is not shiner combination. Remember Location
large.2 Trout ponds can support that trout have to be restocked For satisfactory fish produc-
average annual harvests of about every two or three years. If you tion, the pond should be located
have a new pond and do not where sufficient depth and the
'Detailed stocking recommendations know whether to start off with best possible water supply can be
are given in later sections. trout or bass-shiners, it might be obtained.
1 5
Y
,
A location near the house is springs feeding the pond are Water supply
essential if the pond is needed for exceptionally large. Runoff For New York ponds fed en-
fire protection. This location also ponds should be 10 feet deep for tirely by runoff water, a five-acre
lessens the chance that unautno- trout, although somewhat shai-. watershed is generally adequate
rized persons will fish or stock the lower ponds will give good results to maintain a one-acre pond. If
pond; either action can have ad- in some years. there is some permanent supply
verse effects. Fish ponds should Bass and shiners thrive in cool of spring water, the watershed
not be located where they will or warm water, bluegilis in warm area can be reduced proportion-
receive barnyard drainage. water. Thus ponds fed by large ately. If the watershed is larger
A pond to be used for fish pro- springs will seldom be suitable than necessary, the excess water
duction should not be located for these species. When most of flushing through the pond inter-
where it will receive silty runoff the pond's water comes from run- feres with the fish's food chain
from land regularly cultivated. off, the water level and, conse- by carrying out nutrients and
Such runoff interferes with pro- quently, the water depth tend to plankton. Large outflows may
duction of fish food organisms fluctuate. The water level is also permit the fish to leave the
and reduces fish production. As usually lowest in late summer. pond and may endanger the dike.
silt deposits build up, the pond For satisfactory production of Unneeded runoff water can be
gradually becomes too shallow. bass or bluegills or both, fluctu- kept out of the pond by construct-
ations in water level should not ing a diversion ditch.
Size, depth, and slope be severe, and the pond's maxi- ,Whenever possible, water by-
If properly constructed and in- mum depth should never be less passed from an adjacent stream
tensively managed, ponds as than about 7 feet. This means should not be used to supply a
small as one-tenth acre are suit- that maximum depth in late farm pond used for fish produc-
able for trout,ponds down to one- spring should be at least 8 feet. tion. Practically all streams con-
sixth acre are satisfactory for It follows that if a pond is to be tain undesirable fish of various
bass and shiners, and ponds of used for Irrigation, maximum kinds, and some of these even-
one-half (occasionally one-third) depth after water withdrawals tuaily find their way into most
acre or larger can be used for bass should be at least 7 or 8 feet. by-pass ponds. Streams fre-
and bluegilis. of course, the All sides of the pond should quently carry heavy silt loads, es-
larger the pond, the more fish it have 2:1 slopes out to a point pecially after heavy rains. In
will support and the more fishing where the water is always at least many cases the stream water be-
lt will provide. 3 feet deep. This minimizes the comes too warm for trout.
Trout require cool or cold wa- area of shallow water where If it is essential to use by-pass
ter, even in midsummer. The plants thrive and lessens plant water for a fish pond, contamina-
deeper the pond, the cooler its problems considerably. In trout tion by unwanted fish can be pre-
bottom water will remain. For ponds shallow water is also un- vented or minimized if the water
trout, New York ponds with a desirable because it warms up enters the pond through a pipe
year-round supply.of spring water quickly during sunny weather whose outlet is at least 21/2 feet
should have a maximum depth and warms the whole pond when above the maximum pond level
of at .least 8 feet. Seven feet is mixed with the deeper water by (fig..2).The water falls into a box
occasionally enough when wind action: about 2 feet square, or larger if
l� 6
f
0 Figure 2. If a by-pass water sup-
ply must be used, this box with
Y ++ screened bottom may keep out
weed fish.
large amounts of water enter the structure is expensive, fish are Stocking Regulations
pond. The sides can be wood or less likely to escape through it and Sources of Fish
sheet metal and are about 16 in- than over a spillway. If only a
ches high. The top of this box is spillway Is used, it should be as Before fish can be stocked or
open, but the bottom consists of wide and level as possible to restocked in any pond or other
plastic window screening (about spread the outflowing water in a water, permission to do so must
15 meshes to the in.), thoroughly thin sheet. A small wooden dam be obtained from the State De-
reinforced from below by wooden two to four inches high across the partment of Environmental Con-
or metal slats.The box is mounted spillway tends to prevent escapes. servation through the regional
securely on four legs; water from If a screen Is used for this pur- fish manager.' The procedure is
the inflow pipe falls directly onto pose, it should not be more than simple,and there is no charge for
the screening. The screen should four inches high because it soon the permit.
be at least 6 inches above maxi- becomes clogged and merely acts Fish for stocking privately
mum water level. The construc- as a dam. , owned ponds must be obtained
tion must be sturdy, and all parts A drain pipe is an Important from commercial hatcheries. The
should be protected against rust asset in any fish pond. if the program under which the United
and rot. Fish entering through pond develops leaks, it can be States Fish and Wildlife Service
the pipe are deposited on the drained and repaired. if undesir- supplied fish through local Soil
screen where they die from lack able fish enter the pond, it is Conservation Service offices has
of water or from being beaten often easiest to remove them by been discontinued. Your local
against the screen by the failing draining. If bluegills become Soil Conservation Service office
water. Experience will determine seriously overcrowded, or if par- or the regional fish manager for
how often it must be cleaned to tial winterkill occurs in bass- your area should be able to pro-
keep debris out of the box. This bluegill ponds, it may be best to vide a list of commercial hatch-
will vary with the season. , drain the pond and begin again. eries in New York and neighbor-
Use tile or pipe to lead spring ing states. A list of these hatch-
water from the place where it Fencing eries is also available from the
first appears above ground into Livestock should not have ac- New York State Department of
a trout pond. This method can cess to a farm pond.Their tramp- Environmental Conservation, Bu-
keep the inflowing spring water ling and wading not only en- reau of Fisheries, 50 Wolf Road,
as much as 15°F. cooler than if it danger the dike, but keep the Albany, New York 12201.. Hatch-
were allowed to trickle into the water turbid and reduce the pro- eries operated by the New York
pond above ground.The tile need duction of fish food organisms. State Department of Environ-
not be buried much below ground Simple structures for providing mental Conservation do not sup-
level. stock water outside the pond are ply fish for privately owned
described in Cornell Extension ponds.
Water control structures Bulletin 949, Farm Ponds In New in some counties the Soil and
A combination trickle tube and York. Water .Conservation Committee
drain pipe is particularly desir ,
able in any pond to be managed A directory of regional fish managers
for the various counties of New York State
for fish production. Although this is given on page 20 of this bulletin.
has coordinated a group purchase �: IIII�IIII iIII�IIIiIiIII�IIIIIIIII�IIII IIIICIIII II1111IIIIIIII�IIII IIII�IIIi IIII�III'L!�
of fish from reliable suppliers. ' .
Check with your local Soil and
Water Conservation office to see '+ "
if such a program is available in
Your area. The major advantage
of a group purchase is a reduction
in shipping costs and, possibly, a
large quantity discount in price. y,•F;} w t,F ,',:
Biology and .
Management of • °
Trout Ponds
Kinds of trout
Brook trout (fig. 3) or rainbow Figure 3. Brook trout.
trout (fig. 4) are equally suitable
for New York ponds. Many people � !':���:'+� � i'�►r - �
consider the brook trout to be
better eating. Although neither ►�� ,�, `
species is difficult to catch in the
cooler months of the year, it is , . r •/;. ,r, .
easier to "fish out" a brook trout
population. On the other hand,
rainbows are generally con id "``•: . :
ered to be more spectacular fight- ':X
ers. A mixture of these two kinds
of trout can be stocked in a pond Figure 4. Rainbow trout.
to provide greater variety of
fishing. If both kinds of trout are
stocked, they should be roughly
the same size so that one group
will not prey heavily on the other.
The United States Fish and Wild- .,�. ;!1 •'�'w�►��' � � ;'��� ti
Life Service can supply only brook `"' �'� '+ �•
trout or rainbow trout, which-
ever is available, but not a mix-
ture.
Brown trout (fig. 5) are gen-
erally unsatisfactory in New York '
ponds because they are more dif- Figure-5. Brown trout.
ficult to catch than either brook
or rainbow trout. Thus browns
provide poor to mediocre fishing
and a low yield on the investment.
Also, the old brown trout remain- ulation is killed off and a new trout thrive on an insect-rich,
ing in a pond prey heavily on the trout population established. fish-free diet.
fingerlings introduced for re- There are a few kinds of small,
stocking. nonprolific minnows that might stocking recommendations
Trout are unable to compete not interfere with trout produc- Either spring fingerlings (2 to
successfully with most other fish tion. However, It is very difficult 3 in. long, 2 or 3 months old) or
in a pond because these other fish to obtain these "harmless" min- fall fingerlings(5 to 6 inches long,
multiply rapidly and monopolize nows without getting some harm- 7 or,8 months old) can be used in
the food. Contaminating species ful ones as well. For these rea- stocking farm ponds with trout.
will ruin the pond for trout pro- sons,no minnows or other fish of Both types reach catchable size
duction until the entire fish pop- any kind should be stocked. Pond about the same time, that is, in
' 8
the spring following stocking. Trout should be transported surface acre, the trout generally
However, results with spring fin- only in the cool or'coid weather average about eight inches long
gerlings are much more variable of spring or fall. if there is danger by the following spring. Growth
and unpredictable than with fall that the tank's water temperature rate generally decreases as the
fingerlings,except in ponds con- will rise above 550 F. during fish grow older and is usually
taining no fish and fed by strong, transit,then ice should be packed somewhat faster In summer than
permanent springs. around the tank. If ice is to be In winter.
When trout are obtained from placed In the water used for car- Growth rates vary considerably
commercial hatcheries in the rying fish, It is absolutely essen- from one pond to the next. Trout
East, spring fingerlings, usually tial to use ice made from non- probably grow a little more
sell for about$10 to $18 per hun- chlorinated water since very mi- slowly in the first few months
dred and fall fingerlings for about nute Quantities of chlorine will after a pond has filled, before it
$20 to $30 per hundred FOB. At kill fish. If the fish are to be trans- has built up a large supply of
these prices, fall fingerlings us- ported considerable distances, aquatic Insect life, the trout's
ually provide considerably more then the water should receive principal food. Also trout tend to
catchable size trout per dollar in- oxygen. Oxygen-producing tab- grow more slowly in soft (acid)
vested than will spring finger- lets (2 per milk can) can be used water than in hard (alkaline)
lings. it is very uneconomical to and are available in sport and water.
purchase trout larger than about bait shops.
six inches for pond stocking. When stocking trout, place the Survival
Thus, It is usually best to use can or bucket in the pond and tip Survival of pond trout tends to
fall fingerlings for trout stocking it gently on its side so that the fluctuate with annual variations
in New York ponds. fish can swim out. Do not plant in average summer temperature.
Trout should never be stocked them near the overflow structure. In the first year after stocking,
during the warm season. Spring If the temperature of the water in survival also varies with the size
fingerlings, if stocked, should be the pond differs from the temper- of fingerlings stocked. During
planted no later than May 1; fall ature of water in the transport the summer following stocking as
fingerlings should be planted tank by more than 5°F the fish spring fingerlings, the survival
after September 30. should be "tempered" gradually Is highly variable, averaging
In most New York ponds, 600 to the' pond temperature over a only about 30 percent. In the two
fall fingerlings (or 2,000 spring period of 1 to 2 hours. Tempering succeeding summers, average
fingerlings) per acre of pond sur- can be done by adding pond water survival is about 50 percent.
face should be stocked to produce slowly to the transport tank. Re- Overwinter survival of trout in
the maximum yield of fish consis- member to obtain a state permit each year of pond life is com-
tent with satisfactory growth. before transporting or stocking monly 60 and 80 percent.
Some ponds that are ideal for fish. The dotted line In figure 6
trout can be stocked at rates of shows the average number of
700 fall fingerlings per acre. Oc- brook or rainbow trout remain-
casionally trout in ponds located Growth ing in an unfished pond during
on exceptionally low-Lime soils Brook and rainbow trout grow the three years following stock-
at high elevations wilr show satis- at about the same rate in New ing at a rate of 600 fall fingerlings
factory growth only when stocked York ponds. Average lengths and (or 2,000 spring fingerlings) per
at 400 fall fingerlings per acre. weights In spring and fall for acre. If lower stocking rates are
When the pond owner obtains three years after stocking are used, the number of survivors at
stock, he or she should take spe- given in table 1. In a pond stocked any time will be proportionately
cial precautions that the trout with either 2,000 spring finger- less.
will enter the pond in good condi- Zings or 600 fall fingerlings per From the graph it is clear that
tion. The hatchery person may
advise the owner concerning
number and size of containers to Table 1..Average lengths and weights of pond trout In the first three
bring along. Thoroughly clean years following stocking
.plastic garbage cans with covers
can be used to transport trout First year Second year Third year
(100 fall fingerlings per 30-gat Spring Fall Spring ' Fall Spring Fall
can), although larger tanks, with
covers, are often more satisfac- Length, inches 8.1 10.1 11.1 1 14.2
weight,ounces 4 8 10 .14
14 17 17 22
tort'.
9
r
Table 2. Relation between num-
ber of trout per acre harvested in
the first year and number per
STOCKING — NUMBER PER ACRE acre that could be harvested In
POUNDS PER ACRE 120 the second year after stocking.
soo Average figures for ponds stocked
\ at rates of 300 and 600 fall tin-
0: 500 \\ 100 u gerlings per acre
o , 80 W Number of trout per acre
IL 400 \ IL Available for harvest
\ H in second year
W \ C Harvested
w 300 \ 60 0 in first year when stocking rate was:
z \\ IL 300/acre 600/acre
200 � 40 0 35 70
50 25 60
100 15 50
100 20 150 5 40
30
250 — 20
0 300 — 10
OCT APRIL OCT APRIL OCT APRIL OCT
FIRST YEAR I SECOND YEAR THIRD YEAR
Figure 6. Numbers and pounds of trout remaining In an unfished pond
after stocking with 600 fall fingerlings per acre.
few trout remain after three years placing beds of gravel in suitable averaging about 110 pounds per
in a pond, and four-year-olds are locations.To date no method has acre by fall of the first year fol-
a rarity,as is also the casein most been discovered for achieving lowing stocking, when about 230
other trout waters of the state. adequate natural reproduction trout (dotted line, same graph)
Fish mortality from natural in the average spring-fed pond remain. One year later only 41
causes is normally a gradual pro- without resorting to modifica- pounds (45 trout) are left.
cess and takes place more or less tions and additional construction Fishing trout ponds
continuously, even through the which require considerable out- g
dead fish are very seldom seen. lays of time and money. Figure 6 shows that usually
over 90 percent of the stocked
Reproduction Trout production trout in an unfished pond will
Because most ponds lack a The total poundage of trout have died from natural causes
suitable spawning site, pond present in a pond at any time fol- two years after stocking. For
trout rarely reproduce, although lowing stocking is the net result maximum yield, a pond owner
they may go through the act of of two opposing trends: growth, should therefore harvest as many
spawning. A suitable spawning which increases poundage; and trout as possible during the first
site for trout consists of a gravel deaths, which reduce it. When two years.
area through which a good flow the growth rate exceeds the death The longer an owner waits be-
of water percolates during the in- rate, there is a net increase in fore starting to harvest the trout,
cubation period, supplying the total poundage, and vice versa. the lower the harvest will be.
eggs in the gravel with fresh, oxy- The continuous line in figure 6 Consider the example of a Mr.
gen-rich water and keeping them shows the total pounds of trout Dow and a Mr. Jones, who start
from being smothered by silt de- present in an average unfished out with identical one-acre ponds,
posits. In a very few ponds having New York pond during the three each stocked with 600 fail finger-
exceptionally large and concen- years following stocking with 600 lings. Natural deaths occur at the
trated springs, limited trout re- fall (or 2,000 spring) fingerlings. same rate in both ponds. In the
production has occurred naturally Under these conditions, total first year after stocking, Mr. Dow
at times or has been achieved by poundage reaches a maximum, harvests 165 trout, but Mr. Jones
1' 10
does .no fishing in order to let his from that in the table. just the• natural food produced
fish get larger. The second year Pond trout are generally much in the pond. Although supple-
both men fish equally hard and easier to catch in spring and fall mental feeding may increase the
catch equal percentages of their than in summer, and it is unwise growth rate an inch or two per
remaining trout populations. The to count on harvesting large num- year, it is rather expensive.
numbers of fish caught and re- bers of them between late June Some pond owners may wish
maining in each pond would be: and early September. The most to feed their trout, either as a
successful method of fishing hobby or to maintain much larger
Mr. Dow Mr. Jones may vary with the season and trout populations than the 600
Caught Left Caught Left with the individual fisher's skills. per acre recommended. This
First year Fly fishing, worm fishing, and would be a way to Increase the
after spinning are all effective. fishing potential, especially in a
stocking 165 115 0 230 New York ponds also afford small pond. Pelleted trout food is
opportunities for winter ice fish- available through farm supply
Second year ing, with either worms or stores. Trout usually fdrm the
after habit of surfacing for pellets
stocking 35 5 70 10 weighted artificial lures. The lat- 9 p
Total Catch 200 (75 Ib) 70(50 lb) ter may give best results when that are tossed on the same area
moved up and down in short of the pond each day. Add only
Although Mr. Jones caught jerks,a foot or two above the bot- as much food as will be eaten
twice as many two-year-old fish tom. Out-of-season fishing for immediately. Otherwise, the de-
as Mr. Dow, Dow's total catch for any species can be done only by composing food may foul the wa-
the two years was nearly three the holder of a fish pond license, ter and suffocate the trout (see
times as great in numbers and members of the immediate fam- fish kills, page 17). Feeding
about 50 percent more by weight. ity,and employees (see page 17). should probably be done only
Furthermore, the difference be- Minnows should never be used in ponds having some year-round
tween numbers of fish left in the for bait when. fishing trout from spring water supply and should
two ponds at the end of the sec- ponds. If they escape and•later not be continued beyond Septem-
ond year was insignificant, reproduce in the pond, they will ber 1.
Large two-year-old trout re- usually ruin it for trout produc-
maining in the pond at restocking tion. Fertilizing trout ponds,
usually eat some of the newly
introduced fingerlings. To mini- A single application of inor-
mize this predation, trout should Restocking trout ganic fertilizer at the rate of about
be fished heavily during the sec- From what has already been 300 pounds of 10-10-10 per acre
and year following stocking. said about trout survival in ponds, can be applied to a newly dug
The proportions of trout to be it is clear that a pond should be pond as it is starting to fill. This
harvested in the first and second restocked every two years to is not a necessity but tends to
years after stocking are largely maintain adequate fishing. hasten the establishment of a
matters of individual preference. Fall fingerlings are recom- natural food supply. More fertilf-
Table 2 gives the number of trout mended for restocking. They are zation than this endangers the
most likely to be available for har- much less likely to be eaten by trout.
vest in the second year when the large "holdover trout of the In some New York ponds the
some particular number was har- previous planting than are the addition of about 1,000 pounds of
vested in the first year. This In- smaller spring fingerlings. commercial fertilizer per acre per
formation is given for one-acre The pond 'can be restocked year may suppress aquatic plant
ponds stocked either at 300 or either with 600 fingerlings per growth. However, fertilization
600 fall fingerlings per acre. If acre every two years or with 300 at this rate is usually directly
yours is a one-quarter-acre pond, per acre each year. The .latter harmful to trout or indirectly
you would divide all'the numbers management plan maintains a harmful since it increases the
In the body of the table by 4 and more even mixture of one- and risk of kiil (see page
make proportionate adjustments two-year-old trout. Annuaall applications of about
for ponds of other sizes. Remem- 300 pounds of fertilizer per year
ber that these figures are based tend to increase trout growth.
on average trout survival. In any However, this also stimulates
particular pond, the number of Feeding plant growth so much that the
fish available for harvest in the At the stocking rates recom- pond may become practically use-
second year is likely to differ mended, trout grow rapidly on less.
11
1�
Biology and "
Management of
Bass-Shiner Ponds '
The bass-shiner combination is
recommended for cool-water and '=
warm-water ponds whose owners r
desire sport fishing for bass.This
combination will likely prove
satisfactory in ponds of one-sixth
acre or larger where plants are
present but not abundant.
Kinds of bass and shiners ! rt .;.V. ),
In this bulletin "bass and shin-
ers" kW,
refers to a combination of `
largemouth bass (fig. 7) and Figure 7. Largemouth bass.
golden shiners (fig. 8). Large-
mouth bass are recommended on
the basis of their proven ability N
to grow and reproduce in typical
New York cool-water and warm-
water ponds. Smallmouth bass
might be equally successful and
n ,
desirable in New York ponds, but ~r `
this is not yet known. s �'
The golden shiner is one of a ;, M
number of minnows occurring
naturally In New York. It prefers Figure 8. Golden shiner.
quiet waters with plants on which
to deposit eggs and is quite pro-
lific. Bait dealers successfully duce in normal years and show (broken line, fig. 9).
raise the golden shiner in bait moderate growth to maximum In bass-shiner ponds, shiner
ponds as described in Cornell lengths of 15 or 16 inches. populations usually reach a peak
Extension Bulletin 986, Raising about two years after stocking
Bait Fish and Crayfish in New Growth and then diminish in numbers,
York Ponds. Many anglers con- Growth rates vary considerably probably because of bass preda-
sider it to be the best bait fish of from pond to pond. Table 3 con- tion. In some of the experimental
our native minnows. tains data on average size at- ponds where this combination
tained by bass in some experi- has been tested, shiners have be
Stocking recommendations mental New York bass-shiner come extinct four years after
Suitable ponds should be ponds. Shiners did not grow to a stocking; in others they have sur-
stocked with 100 bass fingerlings very Large size in these ponds; vived for six or seven years. How-
(1 to 2 in. long) and about 400 the largest one found was 8.2 ever, bass have continued to
golden shiner adults (2'/z to 4 in. inches Fong. A 16-inch large- thrive in all the tested ponds,
long) per surface acre. Golden mouth bass can swallow an 8- even those where shiners have
shiner adults are commonly avail- inch golden shiner. been absent for three years. How
able from bait dealers for $5 to long this will continue, or
$10 per hundred. Bass prices are Survival whether shiners need be stocked
given on page 14. in most New As with growth, survival rates at all, is now being studied.
York ponds under one acre in sur- vary considerably from one pond
face area, bass predation usually to another and from year to year. Reproduction
eliminates the golden shiners In unfished experimental bass- Usually bass first reproduce as
within four years. Bass popula- shiner ponds,the number of origi- two-year-olds in New York ponds,
tions usually will continue in- nai bass declined from 100 per but occasionally may not repro-
definitely without any other fish - acre at stocking to an average of duce until they are three or four
species present. They will repro- about 60 per acre five years later years old. Once bass have repro-
1.2
Table 3. Average lengths and weights of bass, In experimental bass- is quite possible to remove most
shiner ponds at midsummer during years following stocking of the large original bass in a
quarter-acre pond in an evening's
Year after stocking fishing; if this is done, fishing will
First Second Third Fourth Fifth be poor for at least a year or two.
Experiments have shown that,
Length, Inches 8.3 11.1 13.1 14.2 15.4 .
Weight,ounces 5 12 1s 22 28 on the average, bass spawned in
New York bass-shiner ponds
reach a 10-inch size when three
years old. Since no bass are
spawned in the pond until two
years after stocking, it follows
that the original stock of bass
must provide all the bass fishing
for ars
100 1 100 after'stocking.t least e first u Knowingthe eav-
erage mortality rate of bass in
o� bass-shiner ponds, it can be de-
80 P�f 80 termined that the average bass-
shiner pond should support har-
��% vests of about 22 bass per acre
a .w� < per year from the second through
W 60 ����� �� b0 cc W the fourth summer after stocking.
o. STOCKED o: Thereafter the bass spawned in
W c the pond should be fished at
cc » about this same rate.
Z40 o�c 40 o About four years after stocking,
R Poundage from some bass-shiner ponds become
natural spawning crowded with bass 8 to 10 inches
Y0 20 long. Where this occurs, a good
proportion of such smaller bass
should be caught and removed
to give those remaining a chance
0 0 1 2 3 4 S 0 to grow. If the larger bass, say
YEAR FOLLOWING STOCKING those longer than 15 inches, are
returned to the pond, then these
larger bass will also help to thin
Figure 9. Averse total numbers and pounds of largemouth bass In out the population of smaller
9 9 P ones. A 15-inch largemouth can
experimental bass-shiner ponds. Heavy lines:stocked bass remaining swallow an 8-inch largemouth.
in an unfished pond. Thin.line: poundage of naturally produced bass Harvesting the smaller bass
in ponds where stocked bass were fished moderately hard. and returning the larger ones
duced, they usually spawn suc- The thin line of figure 9 shows may also serve to maximize both
cessfully in each succeeding year, how the average poundage of the sport and the total catch from
shiners being present or not. young bass,spawned in the pond, a bass-shiner pond.
Shiners reproduce the year fol- Increased when the originally Fertilizing bass-shiner ponds
lowing stocking and each year stocked bass were subjected to Bass-shiner ponds do not re-
thereafter so long as adults are moderate fishing pressure. quire intensive fertilization. To
present. Fishing bass-shiner ponds hasten the development of a nat-
Bass should not be fished until ural food supply, a newly con-
Bass production they have reproduced success- structed pond might be fertilized
Total poundage of original bass fully; that is usually not until two at the rate of about 400 pounds of
in unfished experimental ponds years after stocking. Thereafter, 10-10-10 fertilizer per acre for
increased to an average of 85 they can be fished intensively, the first year or two. A method of
pounds per acre five years after but only a limited number should applying fertilizer is given on
stocking (heavy solid line, fig. 9). be removed.at any one time. It page 16:
13
I'
Biology and Survival Reproduction
Management of The broken lines in figures 10 As in bass-shiner ponds, bass
two-
Bass-Blue gill Ponds and 11 show the average numbers generally first reproduce as two-
g of bass and bluegills, respec- year-olds In bass-bluegill ponds.
The bass-bluegill combination tively, remaining in unfished ex- They reproduce fairly regularly
Is recommended for warm-water perimental bass-bluegill ponds thereafter. Bluegills usually first
ponds larger than one-half acre during the years following stock- reproduce as yearlings and regu-
and deep enough throughout to ing. For both bass and bluegills, larly thereafter. In New York
make plant control practical, survival differs markedly from ponds, bass spawn once, in late
whose owners can harvest at least one pond to the next,even among spring or early summer. Bluegills
165 bluegills per acre per year ponds that seem very similar may spawn more than once dur-
(see page 15). physically and biologically. ing the summer, depending on
Kinds of bass and sunfish
Largemouth bass has been the Table 4. Average lengths and weights of bass and bluegills In experl-
species most generally used with mental bass-bluegill ponds at midsummer during years following
sunfish in ponds. The suitability stocking
of the smalimouth bass for this
purpose in New York is not
known. Of the sunfishes native Year alter stocking
to New York, the bluegill is the First second Third Fourth Fifth
most suitable for pond stocking. Base
Other native sunfish either grow Length, Inches 8.3 10.1 12.0 13.6 14.8
more slowly, have a smaller max- Weight,ounces 5 10 15 20 24
imum size,or overpopulate ponds Bluegills
more rapidly than bluegills. No Length,Inches 5.0 6.4 7.4 7.8 8.2
sunfish other than bluegills Weight,ounces 2 4 8 7 8
should be stocked, except pos-
sibly the redear (see page 17).
Bass-bluegill stocking
recommendations 100 100
Government agencies generally
provide 100 bass fingerlings (1
to 2 in. long) and 1,000 bluegill
fingerlings (about 1 in. long) per 80 �� f 80
acre, both to be stocked during u, W
the same summer. At present " ��� a
there is no strong evidence that 60,,
these stocking rates should be d 60 �1 d
changed or that the time of stock- STOCKED o
ing should be altered.At commer- m Uj ����
cial hatcheries in New York State, 40 ati •�� 40 0
two- to three-inch bass finger- Z ono ��•4*0,
lings cost about$50 per hundred, Q
and one- to two-inch bluegills 20
cost about $25 per hundred 20 R Poundage from
(FOB). natural spawning
Growth 0
Table 4 contains data on aver- 0 0 1 2 3 4 5
age size attained by bass and YEAR FOLLOWING STOCKING
bluegills in experimental bass-
bluegill ponds in New York. Bass Figure 10. Average total numbers and,pounds of largemouth bass in
growth is usually a little slower experimental bass-bluegill ponds. Heavy lines:stocked bass remaining
in these than it is in bass-shiner in an unfished pond. Thin line: poundage of naturally produced bass
ponds. in ponds where stocked bass were fished moderately hard.
14
1
water temperatures. Bluegill re- tions apply to bass fishing in after five years, but reliable in-
production is frequently so suc- bass-bluegill ponds as were formation on this point is lacking.
cessful that bass cannot keep stated for bass-shiner ponds Because bluegills usually first
them under control; this leads to (page 13).The bass harvests from spawn as yearlings, and their
overpopulation and stunting of bass-bluegill ponds will likely young reach a size of about 6.5
bluegills. average less than bass harvests Inches when three years old, the
Bass and bluegill production from bass-shiner ponds.The two original bluegill stock must pro-
The heavy continuous lines in reasons for this are that ap- vide all bluegill fishing for the
figures 10 and 11 show standing parently bass survival is usually first three years following stock-
crops, i1 pounds per acre, n or- lower in bass-bluegill ponds, and ing.In the average,well-managed
crop bass and bluegills, , of or- that it takes four years for bass bass-bluegill pond, about 165
iginalively,in average unfished expert- bluegill
in the average bass- bluegills per acre can and should
mental bass-bluegill ponds. The bluegill pond to reach 10 inches be removed annually during the
in lines show how population but only three years to do this in first three years following stock-
thin s
th bass and bluegills, spawned i most bass-shiner ponds.Thus the ing. If the pond owner prefers to
the average pond,increased when average bass-bluegill pond can wait until original bluegills are
ore average
stocks were subjecteddwto support annual harvests of only two years old and therefore lar-
gabout 11 bass per acre from the ger,then she or he should harvest
moderate fishing pressure. second through the fifth year about 215 bluegills per acre dur-
Fishing bass-bluegill ponds after stocking. Perhaps bass fish- ing each of the second and third
Essentially the same considera- ing might improve somewhat years following stocking. if the
pond does not become crowded
with small bluegills, fishing
should continue at about this
M INS level. In terms of weight, average
140 bass-bluegill populations can
support annual harvests of about
15 pounds of bass and 35 pounds
120 of bluegills.
Two Important points follow
from these findings. The first is
that New York bass-bluegill
1000 t 100 ponds will not support unlimited
catches. The second point is that
after the second year about 15
times as many bluegills as bass
800 STOCKED 80 can and should be harvested. On
LU u, a weight basis this is about 2 to 3
Y �% �� g; pounds of bluegills for every
a �6 R Poundage from < pound of bass removed.
W 600 �%°'a natural spawning 60 u; If bluegills become crowded,
� as they frequently do, large num-
Ui N i bers of them should be removed
400 ; 40 o either by angling, with seines, or
Z a with traps. Figure 12 shows a
••�• chicken-wire trap that is easy to
•�•� 20 build and operate. Several such
200 **"t**"too• � traps should be used, with the
number depending on pond size
and the speed with which a blue-
OL I p 1 2 3 4 S O gill reduction. is desired.. The
YEAR FOLLOWING STOCKING traps should be fished for at least
two weeks during June, July, or
Figure 11. Average total numbers and pounds of bluegills in experi- August and emptied daily. Baiting
mental bass-bluegill ponds. Heavy lines: stocked bluegills remaining them with cottage cheese sus-
in an unfished pond. Thin line: poundage of naturally produced blue- pended in a cloth mesh bag may
gills in ponds where stocked bluegills were fished moderately hard. increase the catch.Further details
1� 15
Figure 12. Trap for harvesting Z�tlk 1„
bluegills. Made from chicken wire --•�• ^^ • ~� �t ',
of one-inch mesh. Door is for re-
Y'ff ,r'r'1',fiY'P'r'r�i'1 i,A,Ilr >•ri V f 1 tY h�V+,f� 'yV;)i -+f 4 '1 Y.
moving fish. ;. f I f,. .,,a,/f„1,�},,ft,,}+'itit"'''� •,1h'�'rl�i�'r}Ir ��14
tf „ rtiti ti r Ar,rt
r J t rf1�4! Y f4 !I rltlr,`5`1`l fii,u tiff rl�}-14'�v ! ';+
f,il4111Awi,Yl](Ign;f}f;! Y J( ,3..<'i,.{f!, d vi.'•, i j. 1 'ih f I talilf 1t1r�,111V,I; ./V�V�
1
, p
Irl��ittf !•i i 1 d} ,ti, I�DI:►ilk
5
s _C,
tlfi•�fxf �.. . ��l�w��4�i+a.. �;.� .!1�}Lri'�jtF;,{{yr/ i .f.1/f hJY ' ,+I!"J,
on bluegill trapping are given August. (The formula recom- Largemouth or smaiimouth bass
in Wildlife Mimeo Number 16, mended in the South, 8-8-2 or alone
available from the Department of 20-20-5, is not readily available It was found that experimental
Natural Resources, Fernow Hail, in New York.) The fertilizer need largemouth-bass-golden-shiner
Cornell University, Ithaca, New not be broadcast; simply cut a ponds tend to become bass-only
York 14853. Bass usually do not large .rectangular 'window' in ponds because the shiners often
enter the traps. one side of the bag and carefully become extinct.But bass continue
Infrequently, bass become lower it, window up, Into 18 to thrive after shiners are no
crowded in bass-bluegill ponds. inches of water In the windward longer present. Bass-only ponds,
Intensive angling for 8-to 10-inch corner of the pond. if a bloom containing either largemouths
bass probably will reduce their does not develop in several or smaiimouths, might provide
numbers sufficiently, weeks, another bag should be enough fishing for many New
added at another location in the York pond owners.Whether bass-
Fertilizing bass-bluegiil ponds pond. Thereafter, an additional only ponds would provide as
Heavy fertilization is generally bag should be added when the much fishing as bass-shiner
recommended for bass-biuegill plankton bloom shows signs of ponds during the first two to four
ponds in southern states. One diminishing. To develop and years is not known. A suggested
purpose of such fertilization is to maintain a satisfactory bloom in a trial stocking is 150 bass finger-
produce dense plankton blooms one-acre pond may require 1,000 lings per acre.
which serve to shade out plants pounds or more fertilizer per acre
and prevent their growth. An- of pond surface annually. Channel catfish
other purpose is to increase pro- If plants become a problem, This species has been tested
duction of bluegills and possibly these should all be removed by in some New York ponds. Sur-
bass. either chemical or mechanical vival immediately following
In New York ponds, fertiliza- means before more fertilizer is stocking was very low in most
tion does not always result in added.Also, it is pointless to add ponds.Where survival was good,
plankton blooms, and the fertili- fertilizer to a pond if large p
zer then merely serves to increase amounts of water flush through it catfish attained quite large sizes
plant growth. Also, the large periodically. (up to 12 lb) as they reached
amounts of organic matter ages of eight and nine years. Re-
formed may use up all the oxygen production was spotty; in one
in the pond while decomposing in pond it first occurred when fish
winter and thus suffocate the Biology and of the original stock were three
fish. For these reasons heavy Management of years old, another when stock
y
fertilization is not recommended g was eight ears old, and in an-
for most New York ponds; it may Other Species other no reproduction occurred
be relatively safe only in the What are the alternatives to during the first nine years. This
larger, deeper ponds. the given stocking and manage- species is difficult to rear in
Pond owners who decide to try ment recommendations? Can hatcheries; and therefore, stock
producing a plankton bloom other species be added to the is.usually hard to obtain.
should apply an inorganic com- given combinations? These and
mercial fertilizer such as 10- similar questions are often asked; Brown bullhead
10-10 from late spring to mid- some suggestions follow. Bullheads (sometimes called
l' 16
"catfish") are quite popular in bass or bass and bluegilis'. They after it has filled, the clay can
New York. Many pond owners have not been tested in New usually be precipitated by adding
are interested enough in this York. In other areas they grow ground agricultural limestone
species to add it(usually illegally) somewhat faster than bluegilis, (calcium carbonate). This mate-
to whatever species were stocked are less prolific, but sometimes rial is commonly available in
in the pond. Usually the results are more difficult to catch than farm supply stores. An applica-
are unsatisfactory. bluegiils. Perhaps this species tion of 1,000 pounds per acre will
Bullheads often reproduce in might be used as an alternative usually suffice to clear the water
ponds. They frequently overpop- to bluegills in suitable ponds of and keep it clear for two or more
ulate the pond and stunt at a southwestern New York. years. There is no danger of an
small size. Bullheads stir up the "overdose" since limestone is
mud of the pond searching for pond Maintenance harmless to fish and in fact tends
insects living there. If the bull- to increase the pond's productive-
heads are crowded, they may Fish-pond license ness. Other chemicals, such as
keep the pond almost perman- As stated in Section 358 of the gypsum and alum, will also settle
ently rolled.The muddiness Inter- Conservation Law, the holder of out suspended clay, but these
feres with growth and reproduc- a license or "any member of his substances tend to acidify the Ova-
tion of other species in the pond immediate family, and any per- ter. Fish production is lower in
and also reduces the value of the son actually employed by him in acid waters.
pond for swimming and as a the cultivation of his farm or the Do not use lime or quicklime
source of domestic or stock water. management of the licensed pond (calcium oxide) which may kill
may without license . . . take fish the fish.
Yellow perch of any size,in any number, at any
Yellow perch have been tried time,in any manner permitted by Preventing fish kills
In a few New York ponds. They the Department." Partial or complete fish kills
are very good to eat, and popu- Application for a fish-pond li- are not uncommon in New York's
lations that are not crowded can cense should be made to the re- ponds. After a kill has occurred,
furnish good pan-fishing. Infor- gional fish manager (see p. 20). it is often difficult or impossible
mation available indicates that There is no charge for the license. to determine its cause with cer-
perch tend to reproduce aburi- Privately owned ponds used In tainty. Information in this section
dantly and soon overpopulate the connection with camps, motels, may assist a pond owner in mak-
pond with stunted fish. Appar- or hotels are not eligible for this Ing an educated guess about the
ently they are not cannibalistic license. Fish that have been cause of a fish kill, and also in-
enough to control their own num- caught from a pond may be trans- dicates how the risk of kills can.
bers when stocked either alone ported off the pond owner's prop- be lessened.
or with species that are not fish erty only when certain regula- 1. Oxygen depletion
eaters. tions are observed.For these and For respiration, fish depend on
It has been suggested that certain other regulations, see oxygen that is dissolved In the
perch might act as a buffer in a Section 358 of the Conservation water; if there is Insufficient oxy-
bass-perch-bluegili combination Law• gen in the water, the fish suffo-
in ponds by serving as an alter- The pond license described cate.Fish suffering from suffoca-
nate forage species for bass and above permits owners to plan tion can be seen struggling and
also as an additional predator on fishing and management to suit gasping at the surface. All or
bluegiils. This is probably partly themselves. Thus trout may be most of the fish are affected at
true,but it is likely.an oversimpli- fished in fall, winter, and spring the same time. The fish die with
fication of what the effects really when they are most readily the mouths open and gills flared
are when these three species are caught. Similarly, bass may be out.
stocked together. As yet there is fished in spring before plants be- Summer kills caused by suffo-
no firm basis for conclusions come a problem. if warm-water cation usually occur between 4
about this species combination in species become crowded, small a.m. and 8 a.m. During the night,
New York ponds. fish may be removed. There are, green plants, fish, insects, bac-
therefore, important advantages teria, and other animals remove
Redear sunfish in possessing such a license. oxygen from the water, and so
Redear sunfish (also called the oxygen concentration in the
"sheilcrackers")are popular pond Clearing muddy water water reaches Its lowest point In
fish in the Midwest and South, in If the pond Is stilt muddy with early morning.
combination with largemouth suspended clay three months The process of decay also re-
l` 17
quires oxygen. During the winter take place without the owner's tained each time it is necessary
months when the pond is Ice knowledge. to poison a pond. Detailed infor-
covered, the animals, higher If a temperature kill occurs in a mation on treating ponds with
plants, and most bacteria and trout pond during a summer with rotenone is available from your
fungi are dependent on the oxy- approximately average tempera- county agricultural agent and
gen in the trapped water,plus any ture, the owner should consider from your regional fish manager
oxygen that may enter with in- restocking with bass and shiners of the Department of Environ-
fiowing water or may be given off or bass and biuegiiis. mental Conservation.
by well-Lighted green plants liv- 3. Toxic substances Controlling muskrats
ing under the Ice. Large amounts Occasionally fish are killed by
of decomposing animal or plant the introduction of poisonous ma- Muskrats damage ponds by
matter in the pond may then use terials into the pond. Such sub- burrowing into the banks. The
up the oxygen and thus cause fish stances include various Insecti- burrow starts about six inches be
to suffocate. cides (such as rotenone, toxa- low the water line, slopes up-
Kills from oxygen depletion, phene,DDT,dleldrin,endrin,and ward, and is usually four to five
either in summer or in winter, organophosphates), sprays con- feet long. Such burrows may
occur most frequently in New taining large amounts of copper cause leaks and dangerous
York ponds that are small and compounds,and many chemicals amounts of erosion. When the
shallow and have dense plant containing chlorine. The dying burrows collapse these problems
growths or in ponds treated with fish show various symptoms, de- are magnified.
large amounts of fertilizer or ma- pending on the kind and amount If possible, the prospective
nure. The chances of kills from of toxic material introduced. builder should locate the pond in
suffocation can therefore be less- To avoid such kills, the above an area well removed from other
ened by building deeper ponds; insecticides should not be used on water bodies, including streams,
by avoiding heavy fertilization, the pond watershed, and equip- which are potential sources of
including barnyard drainage;and ment used for applying these and muskrat infestation.
by controlling weed growths, other sprays should never be Whether muskrats are present
particularly In late summer. filled, emptied, or rinsed in the or not, the pond banks should
Chemical weed killers should not pond or tributaries to it. be kept mowed so that if damage
be used later than mid-Septem- occurs, it can be seen and cor-
ber. Eliminating undesirable fish rected promptly. Mowing also
2. High water temperature When a pond has become con- reduces the amount of protective
Of the fish species recom- taminated with fish species other cover for muskrats. Cattails and
mended for New York ponds, than, those stocked, it may be other emergent vegetation should
only trout suffer kills caused by necessary to eliminate them and be removed from the pond since
high temperature. When water start over again. Often this is these plants provide both food
temperatures throughout the most easily accomplished by re- and cover.
pond remain warmer than about moving all the water -from the Muskrats should be removed at
740 F. for more than a few days, pond by draining, siphoning, or once when there is evidence that
trout begin to die. This type of pumping. It Is important that the they are damaging a farm pond.
kill is usually progressive rather pond bottom become dry. They are most likely to move in
than sudden as with suffocation. If the pond cannot be dried,the during the spring or fall when the
At any particular time during the fish can be killed with rotenone, official trapping season is usually
hot spell, some dead fish may be an inexpensive chemical which closed.The simplest approach is
noted on the bottom or floating interrupts oxygen transfer in the to obtain a 'rider' on your fish
on the surface.Dying fish behave gills. In the very low concentra- pond license authorizing you to
in an abnormal manner; they ap- tions used for killing fish, rote- . trap muskrats from your pond at
pear sluggish or very inactive, or none is entirely harmless to ani- any time for nuisance control
may swim slowly in circles or mals except for swine, which purposes. A pond owner who
in spirals. might be. poisoned by drinking does not have a pond License can
Because high-temperature kills treated water. It is Illegal to use obtain a temporary trapping per-
usually are gradual and because rotenone. in any body of water mit from the regional game man-
carcasses that float usually drift without first obtaining a permit ager.
ashore and are soon disposed of to do so from your regional fish $teal traps• are relatively inex-
by racoons, skunks, and other manager of the Department of
animals, it is possible for a large Environmental Conservation. This Is the type consisting of 2 steel
or complete temperature kill to Special permission must be ob- jaws that snap shut.
i' 18
l
pensive, and are effective if set Fife that might otherwise become Information or assistance on pro-
properly. Of these, the "stop- fish food;their effect on manage- tecting a pond from these birds
loss" or "killer" models are more ment of a pond for fishing Is neg- should be directed to the regional
efficient although more expen- ligible. Furthermore, they serve game manager for your county
sive. Number 1 Yz or number 2 an important function as food for (see page 20 for addresses).
traps should be used. various predatory birds and rep- By far the most damaging bird
Individuals inexperienced in tiles that may visit the pond and predator noted in New York
trapping techniques can use which, without this ready source ponds has been the domestic
cage-type live traps, which have of food,might make more serious Muscovy duck. In farm ponds
spring_ action doors, to remove inroads on the fish population. where Muscovies have been pre-
muskrats. The traps are baited Occasionally water snakes take sent, trout survival over a five-
with-carrot slices. Although the up residence near a pond, al- month summer period has fre-
cost per trap is several times though this is common only in quently been as low as 10 percent.
more than for steel traps, only a ponds located close to streams. If it Is necessary to give these
few live traps are necessary to To date there is no evidence that ducks access to a fish pond, they
effectively trap a pond; and since these snakes noticeably affect should be fenced and wing-
they catch the muskrats alive, pond fish populations, although clipped so that their activities are
pond owners can release the ani- they do eat fish.Water snakes are confined to a very small fraction
mals at some distant point if they less docile than some other kinds of the total pond area.
wish. and may strike if cornered and Moles are occasional farm pond
If a pond is constantly invaded sufficiently provoked. However, pests. Their tunnelling activities
and damaged by muskrats from they are nonvenomous. may destroy patches of the sod
nearby water areas or if the dike Snapping turtles occasionally cover on pond banks,with conse-
is especially narrow, the pond inhabit larger ponds and,in a few quent erosion. Mole control by
owner may wish to rip-rap the Instances,have been known to do trapping and information on the
shoreline with small rocks or some damage to fish popula- habits of moles are presented in
heavy gravel. These materials tions. Snappers can be dis- Cornell Extension Bulletin 729,
should be extended at least one tinguished from other turtles by Control of Small Animals in
foot above normal water level and the saw-tooth rear edge of the Homes and Gardens. Moles also
at least three feet below it, in a upper shell. Other kinds of tur- can be succcessfully killed with
layer about three inches thick. tles are more common in New poisoned bait.
Areas so treated have fairly com- York ponds and are entirely
plete and lasting protection from harmless. Information on pond Commercial fish ponds
muskrats. The barrier also pro- turtles and their capture is found Sometimes individuals become
tects the shoreline against wave in Turtle Trapping, Fishery Interested in the possibility of
erosion and improves the area for Leaflet 190, available from the operating a fish pond for financial
swimming. United States Fish and Wildlife profit.° At present there is little
Service,Washington,D.C. 20240. information available from such
Miscellaneous pond animals Various wild birds occasionally ventures in New York State.
Frogs or salamanders (newts) visit farm ponds. As far as is However,certain general consid-
or sometimes both are common known, most of them do not ser- erations and precautions can be
in many ponds. Strangely, iously affect the fish population, mentioned.
enough,frogs,tadpoles,and sala- with the exception of the great For any kind of commercial
manders are rarely found In the blue heron and kingfisher. There operation, owners should obtain
stomachs of pond trout, bass, or have been occasional instances as much detailed information as
bluegills. These animals are en- of ponds well removed from roads possible about the actual profits
tirely harmless to humans and are or buildings where herons or they can expect. For this, they
a natural and interesting part of kingfishers have killed consider- would need accurate information
any aquatic environment. There able numbers of fish and inflicted on the existing or potential mar-
is no practical way of eliminating wounds of many of the remain-
them from the pond that would der. However, it is virtually Im- °A useful reference on this general
not also eliminate the fish. Even possible for these birds to elimi_ topic Is Fish Culture as a Livelihood,
Fishery Leaflet 97, available from the
if total eradication were achieved, nate a fishpond population unless United States Fish and Wildlife Service,
the pond would very soon become the pond is extremely small and Washington o. C. 20240. For further in-
repopulated. Although frogs and shallow. Herons and many other formation on fish raising,consult Culture
and Diseases of Game Fishes, by H. S.
salamanders consume a portion migratory birds are protected Davis,Univ.of California Press,Berkeley,
of the pond's plant and animal under federal law. Requests for Calif.
i' 19