Run aerator during winter?

Question:

I LOVE your newsletter. Can’t wait to read the newest info and tips. Also love your videos! Question: is it beneficial to run the aerator at the bottom of the pond throughout the winter? We’ve had it going all summer. We keep our waterfall going all winter and use a little heater when the water starts to ice over. We live in northern Indiana and this will be our third winter having our pond. Thank you for this question and answer service!

Answer:

Thank you for your nice words regarding our newsletter and videos, we are always glad to hear that they provide a useful service!

Aeration is always good for the pond, even in winter. It helps to assure survival of the fish and (especially in conjunction with a good cool weather beneficial bacteria) helps to keep the life cycle in the pond going and too much waste from accumulating. We would move the air stone a bit off the bottom, though, so that the water in the low regions stays a bit warmer for the fish without being disturbed too much.