new ponds

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Sue Harris on April 7, 2009 at 5:28pm

Hi Louie,
I have just seen your telephone message but missed a coup[le of numbers off the end of your mobile so I hope you get this before you feel the need to ring me back. I cannot find your number at present but I know I have it here somewhere.

We bought our barley hay from Manjimup Stock Feeds, they always seem to have it but if you follow up with a Donnybrook Stock feed company you should be able to get it.

To answer your other questions:-
We have been told to add lime to the bottom of the pond, Agriculture lime in bags, about two bags per pond for 1000 sq metres ponds. This ensures your ph stays within normal range of alkaline which the marron survive well in. You need to re-do this each year or add the lime rock[ in golf ball size pieces, one tractor bucket per year].
Also barley hay we add if too much suspended clay is present in the water. This also provides nutrient for the marron as they will slowly eat their way through what you put in the pond. We spread the equivalent of one bale per pond but break it up into smaller pieces and tie around the edges so the paddle wheels circulate the water past the barley hay and mix the water with what ever it is in the bale that makes the difference. Then when you put your marron in the pond feed them well during hot weather [we feed daily] and at least twice a week in winter. You need to closely monitor your water forever whan we do intensive commercial ponds as it will turn quickly and you can loose all your marron.
This is what we do on our farm but you will collect other opinions as you talk to more people.
cheers Sue

▶ Reply to This