Farm Ponds

* Average farm ponds are about the a acre in size. (Ponds smaller than one acre seldom
  support fish populations for a extended period of time.)
* Before construction a pond contact your local supervisor to check legal restrictions.
* You may also contact Natural Resources Conservation Services.
* Make sure to include a drain line.
* Pond can be less than fifteen feet deep. (There is not enough oxygen for fish fifteen feet
  or more deep.)
* Water should be less than 70 degrees F. for trout. Most ponds will only support warm
  water fish: bass, bluegill, etc.
* Do not allow livestock around the pond.
* Avoid using agricultural fertilizer around the pond.
* The most important aspect to your pond design is the amount of oxygen available for
   fish.
* Small chemical kits can be purchased to measure oxygen in your pond.
* pH levels should be between 7.5 to 9.0
* The amount of fish a pond can hold is determined by the amount of space and nutrients
   available. Avg. is about 100 to 700lbs per acre.
* You should research the special maintenance requirement for the fish species you
   stock.
* You should monitor fish health, size, and the development of unwanted fish.
* Healthy aquatic plants are essential. Plants must be keep under control.

E.F. Schumacher is the founder of Appropriate Technology.

Students will develop an understanding of and be able to select and use agricultural and related biotechnologies.