This bulletin is a guide for doing these tasks. Operation Operating a pond includes tasks done at least monthly and more frequently some times of the year. The operator should make a monthly operation assessment of the following items. Vegetation on pond embankments should be healthy, vigorous, perennial grass. Inside the fence and embankment, grass should not be taller than 6 inches.
Tall vegetation drapes into the water and restricts airflow.
Outside the embankment, the perennial grass should be healthy and vigorous for protection, but a limitation on height is not so important. Observe and record water color. The water's color is directly related to pH and dissolved oxygen and is a good indication of the pond's health. Table 1 lists water colors and corresponding interpretations. A change to a less-desirable color has a cause and may require correction.