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86 • Nebraska Game and Parks Commission � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � T he first step is to determine if aeration is needed. A deepening project should be considered instead of aeration for most shallow- water situations. However, aeration can be used during drought conditions to maintain a fishery until the pond or lake refills. Aeration systems are usually installed for several reasons: expanding available fish habitat (providing oxygen to water depths normally devoid of oxygen, a common problem in most sandpits, very deep and/or wind protected ponds, and some dugouts); improving water quality (keeping the bottom oxygenated results in bottom sediment retaining phosphorous, which usually reduces algae blooms); and preventing winterkills and summerkills. Decomposition of organic material, primarily dying or dead aquatic vegetation, uses up available oxygen in the water and can lead to low dissolved oxygen levels during both winter and summer months, particularly in shallow ponds. Aquatic vegetation die-offs usually occur when excessive amounts of vegetation are present and available sunlight is cut off for an extended period of time. Sunlight can be blocked by excessive snow cover and thick ice or when silt-laden runoff following thunderstorms muddies the pond or lake water upon entering. Extended periods of cloudy days during summer months can also cause aquatic vegetation die-offs. Aeration systems can be powered by electricity or by wind or solar energy. The following information will deal primarily with an electrical system utilizing these basic components: • power source • air compressor • delivery hose/tubing • diffuser The air compressor is designed to draw in air and force it through a delivery system to the diffuser near the pond bottom. Although most air compressors can be adjusted in the field for either 120 or 240 volts, the 240v is preferred, especially if the delivery line runs more than 300 feet from the main power line. The best situation is when power is readily available at the site. Then it's just a matter of running a short power line to a fuse box. Portable generators can be used if power isn't readily available. Purchase a generator that has a large fuel capacity for extended operation. The kilowatt rating should be at least twice the motor horsepower (3 kilowatts or 3000 watts for 1½ horsepower). Check with the generator manufacturer to be sure. The air compressor should have a case/box surrounding it to protect it from the elements with a lock to lessen the likelihood of vandalism. This structure should be ventilated to prevent the compressor from over-heating. The case/box should be constructed to allow easy access to the compressor for periodic maintenance. APPENDIX D ADDITIONAL AERATION INFORMATION AERATION SYSTEM