Winter weather in the Mid-Atlantic region can be quite unpredictable. Some years can be mild with no snow and spring-like days and some years we can experience frigid temperatures that last for weeks. Its during those extended periods of cold temperatures that you may find yourself wondering about the safety of your fish and the possibility of your pond freezing completely.
Thankfully, the water temperature in your pond does not change as quickly or drastically as air temperatures can. Your pond will begin to cool down as the seasons move from fall into winter. When the water temperature gets cold enough to form ice the pond is unlikely to freeze solid even during lengthy periods of cold weather.
The ground temperature below and around the pond helps to insulate and keep the deeper water from freezing. This deeper water can remain around 35°-40° throughout the winter. In these deeper depths, fish are able to survive the winter as long as they have adequate water quality and oxygen. Fish are classified as ectothermic, also known as “cold blooded”, meaning their body temperature adjusts to the temperature of the surrounding water. The ecosystem ponds we build are a minimum of 24” inches deep and we have not heard a report of one freezing solid in our local area, especially when using a pond heater or aerator.
You can learn more about why water quality and oxygen are important to the health and survival of your fish by reading the blog post below.
People with extremely shallow ponds may still be worried about their fish the possibility of it freezing and need to take special precautions. Setting up a large tank either inside an insulated garage or greenhouse area and moving your fish inside for the winter can be an option to consider.
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Salvador began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March 2017.
Noé began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in July of 2020.
David began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March of 2019.
Fredi began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March of 2003.
Miguel began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in June 2014.
Nelson began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March 2019.
Arturo began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in September of 2011.
Antonio began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March 2001.
Mark began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in September 2010. Mark holds the following certifications; Aquascape Academy Certified, Maryland Certified Pesticide Applicator, and Maryland Certified Fertilizer Applicator.
Shawnee began working with Damascus Enterprises in April 2021.
Mike is a 3rd generation landscape professional and has worked in the field of horticulture for over 20 years. He has an AAS degree in landscape technology from Montgomery College. Mike is a Certified Professional Horticulturist through the Maryland Department of Agriculture and Landscape Industry Certified in softscape, and hardscape installation certified through PLANET. Mike began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in February 2014.
Damascus Enterprises, Inc. was established by Scott in 1998 as strictly a landscape company. Under his leadership and through continued training the business has grown and expanded to now offer a full array of services that include pond and waterfall installation and maintenance, lawn care, landscape design, custom stonework, and outdoor lighting.Scott is an Aquascape Certified Contractor, Vista Certified Design & Installation Specialist and regularly attends industry education and networking events like Pondemonium and Pondeminium. He has previously been recognized as a top young entrepreneur by Maryland’s Governor and the Small Business Association. He currently serves on the board of Montgomery County Farm Bureau and is Co-chair of the entertainment committee of the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair and is involved in the Damascus community through various activities. Scott and his wife Melody live in Damascus with their two children.