| I agree with Dick, you may not realise the error of your ways until spring. One or two degrees can, and sometimes do, make all the difference in the world. I also agree that altering your plumbing to bypass the waterfall is well worth the effort.
I can't tell you how many times in my business i have seen first hand people that have been keeping koi for 10 or even 15 years just to lose everything in one winter. It's a very harsh lesson to learn but sometimes that's what it takes for some people.
I doesn't matter in my opinion whether the koi are show grade or just pond pets, they deserve the best that you can offer them in the way of a good environment. If you can afford to heat your pond then that would be the best but for most people that isn't an option. So, why not make it as easy on them as you can. Just the simple act of shutting off a waterfall can make all the difference in the world.
If that isn't something you can do now...consider doing what you have to in the summer to get your plumbing winter ready for next year.
If you get Koi USA you can read my article in the Sept issue on winterizing.
Dayleen |