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decomposition adds nutrients to the pond and improves water clarity by facilitating settling of suspended soil particles. The ensuing nutrient boost also facilitates initial establishment and expansion of fish food items (such as zooplankton, phytoplankton, and aquatic insects). New ponds generally have an abundance of nutrients so it is quite common for algae to become established in the first 2 or 3 years. Eventually, most algae is replaced naturally by more desirable emergent and submerged vegetation. The dam should be protected from erosion due to waves with rock rip-rap or dense grass, such as prairie cordgrass. Trees should not be planted or allowed to grow on the dam as their roots can cause water leakage problems, nor should they be planted along the northwest corner of ponds. Prevailing northwest winter winds are needed to prevent excessive accumulation of snow on the ice, which can cause winter fish kills. Other Pond Uses The intended uses of the pond should be carefully considered before a pond is designed or the site selected. If you want a fishing pond, and the pond is designed specifically for fishing, it will be easier to manage and maintain and have greater recreational potential than if it were designed for an alternate use. Some uses will not be compatible with fish production, while some can be, with proper pond design. Livestock watering will interfere with fish production if no precautions are taken to restrict their access. When livestock are allowed unlimited access to the pond shoreline and/or feeder stream, they trample the banks, resulting in shoreline erosion and the destruction of fish spawning and nursery areas. This can also weaken the dam and spillway, and shorten the life of the pond. Most importantly, livestock will muddy the water and increase nutrient inputs, which will prevent the establishment of desirable fish populations. Ponds less than 5 acres should be fenced with a 100-foot minimum buffer, including the dam, emergency spillway, entire pond perimeter, and feeder stream, to exclude livestock. Auxiliary watering techniques can then be used. A pipe installed through the dam to a stock tank located outside the fenced area below the dam will provide cattle with clean, quality water, which can increase their weight gains. The 2-inch diameter pipe should extend into the pond and connect with a standpipe that has a top 4 feet lower than the water surface when full. Coarse gravel can be placed in the standpipe to filter the water and prevent fish from entering. A float valve can be installed in the stock tank to maintain a consistent water level. Direct Watering of Livestock from Pond Direct Watering of Livestock from Pond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .second edition • Nebraska Pond Management • 23 Watering Livestock from a Hydrant Watering Livestock from a Hydrant