| Hi Tamus,
Welcome to this board! I am also somewhat of a newbie as well. I have joined this board and subscribed to the magazine since its' conception two years ago. Both are excellent source of information for koi. I am on this board daily. There's a whole range of knowledge level on here starting from newbies like you and I to very experienced hobbyists(some even breed their owe koi). Everyone on here are very friendly and helpful as long as you do not keep koi in a water garden pond. :-) Just kidding.
Sounds like you have a water garden feature instead of a koi pond. Your water quality might not be suitable for koi. Maintaining water quality in a water garden feature is very difficult due the accumulation of mums in the bottom of the pond from dead plants and dirt. That could explain why you are having koi health issues. Most people start with water garden pond like you and gradually move to a "true" koi pond which should be deep(at least 4') with bottom drain(s), good filtration and no plants.
If you like koi and want to further your knowledge, I would definitely recommend joining clubs. There are two koi clubs(Oklahoma Koi Society and Dallas Koi Kichi) which are within two hours drive from Ardmore, Ok. I live in Dallas and I am a member of the Dallas Koi Kichi club. We have at least 3 KHV(Koi Health Advisor) among our members who are more than willing to help educate you on koi health issues.
Best Wishes,
Sunny |