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For those of us afflicted with cold weather problems, it is easy to "forget" about water quality in our ponds... especially those ponds "under the ice." And since we do not monitor our water quality as closely in winter nor do we do as many water changes in a pond subjected to melting snow and ice and lots of rain, chances are that our water quality is going to deteriorate and we might not be aware of it.

So.... I suggest that everyone monitor their water quality all winter especially your KH levels just to make sure everything is OK.. and don't be afraid to adjust them or change some water as needed.

I teach the KHA guys (unisex term) that for mature ponds, if they got to take only ONE water test to give them an idea of the health of the pond in cold water, what would that be?? Well, in my not so humble opinion, it is KH levels. And here is a couple of reasons why..

1. With a solid KH level, we know the pH is going to stay relatively stable.

2. A good KH level will counteract the effects of photosynthesis and melting snow and ice which will continue "under the ice."

3. A low KH level is a foreteller of impending disaster.. especially in ice covered ponds.

4. Ammonia will probaby be measurable but of no concern because the toxicity of ammonia is greatly reduced in cold water.

So, get out there and grap some pond water... warm it up and exercise your drop-squeezin' fingers and get some readings... Everyone will be a lot happier knowing the fish are in good water.

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