Open system

[lapv]

can anyone explain how an open system works and how the plumbing is installed. i am new at this and i am going to try to diy.
thanks
lapv

[MikeM]

You'll get some debate as to what qualifies as an 'open system' and what is only 'semi-open'. From a practical perspective, a semi-open system is perhaps achievable for you. First, you set up a constant in-flow of fresh water. This means you must have automatic systems in place for de-chlorination and otherwise getting the fresh water in proper condition for the koi. Then, you need an 'overflow' or outfall that lets water continuously exit the pond. Disposal of the constant flow can be an issue depending on your site.

While the idea of constant fresh water seems ideal, you actually have to be very careful. For most people, raw dechlorinated water is not the best water. The Japanese refer to well-conditioned water as 'mellow water'... I hope JR comes along to add his thoughts. He can be downright poetic talking about mellow water. .... It is difficult to suggest an optimal in-flow rate, because it depends on the nature/characteristics of your source water. Most folks seem to suggest that 10% to 20% per day is good. I am not aware of anyone whose source water is so good that they would do 100% per day. I guess perfect source water would let you move to a true open system.... say 100% of pond capacity every couple of hours??? ... not very practical. But, in even a slow moving natural stream, there is a 100% change every few minutes. That's truly 'open', and highlights the challenge we koikeepers have in providing for our fish.

JR: Are you around to help out?

[kingkong]

I saw my first open system when I was twelve years old, 1963. After school we played games like throwing rocks at each other. While our arms were resting I remember my neighbor had the neatest pond of sorts. It was always chrystal clear and full of native flora and fauna like baby gators, sailfin molly, brim, ramblers, flag fish and so on. It was a ceramic bathtub with fresh water (well water) piped in from one end and old water out the other. Systems have not changed around here since 1963.

[Eugeneg]

[
I am not aware of anyone whose source water is so good that they would do 100% per day. I guess perfect source water would let you move to a true open system.... say 100% of pond capacity every couple of hours??? ... not very practical. But, in even a slow moving natural stream, there is a 100% change every few minutes. That's truly 'open', and highlights the challenge we koikeepers have in providing for our fish.

Angel fish farm in Florida uses an open system . Their cemment ponds have no filtration at all and they do this by doing a 100% water change a day . Saw it last year before comeing to show . I booked my ticket and car rental so will see you at show but my pocket book is rather thin after Japan trip .
Regards
Eugene

[kingkong]

100% change of water happens all the time around here. I helped build the pond you speak of Eugene.
Here is a large scale open system you might have heard of. River of grass.... ring a bell.

[luke frisbee]

KK,
if a rambler ain't a car can you post a pic of one?

[kntry]

I live in the country with a well and I have ditches in front of my house. I flow about 200 gallons a day through my 3300 gallon pond with overflow going to the ditch.

I do this because pond is temporarily overstocked.

If you're going to do any kind pf flow through, be sure your source water is very good and stable.

[MikeM]

Eugene: Be sure to say hello! ... I'll be running around doing what I can to make things easier for the vendors. BTW, there are 40+ vendors this year. So, "wallet beware".

[Eugeneg]

[quote=MikeM;107834]Eugene: Be sure to say hello! ... I'll be running around doing what I can to make things easier for the vendors. BTW, there are 40+ vendors this year. So, "wallet beware". [/quote

Is there a web site for list of vendors ,speakers and registrations ? as I have not found anything ?
Regards
Eugene

[MikeM]

yep... cfks.org Click enough and you'll get to a show lay-out showing where the vendors will be, the seminar schedule, reservation forms for banquet, show entries, etc. There has been a little switching around with a couple of vendors. Kodama does not show on the posted vendor lay-out (unless updated recently), but is coming ... I know NKF is thinking about bringing a really nice Sanke. Bit of a risk, because they don't take koi back to the farm. But if they bring the one they're thinking about, you may need a padlock on your wallet.