03/17/2026
Who is ready for winter to be done🙋? We sure are!! ☀️
With ice melting and temps bouncing around, we’ve been getting calls about fish kills. While it’s unfortunate to see, it’s actually pretty common after long, harsh winters.
Here are a few quick basics 👇
• Why it happens:
When ponds freeze over, snow and ice block sunlight and limit oxygen. At the same time, natural decomposition releases gases and uses up oxygen. Without exchange at the surface, fish can struggle to survive due to overall low oxygen rates.
• Weather plays a role too:
Big thaws, heavy rain, and rapid temperature swings (which we’ve had a lot of lately in Southeast Michigan!) can mix pond layers and stress fish even more.
• How to help prevent it:
– Aeration is the best solution—it keeps oxygen levels up and allows gas to escape all winter
– It also helps maintain a more stable environment 365 days a year!
• If you’re dealing with a fish kill:
– Removing fish is the best option (as unpleasant as it is)
– If not, keep pets and people away—decomposition can produce harmful bacteria
– In spring, beneficial bacteria treatments can help restore pond health
For more information, please review the DNR article listed below. 👇
https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/managing-resources/fisheries/disease/information-about-fish-kills
👉 Looking ahead, aeration is one of the best investments you can make for your pond. It’s low maintenance, improves overall water quality, and helps prevent issues like winterkill before they start.
We offer free aeration evaluations and system sizing, as well as professional installation services. If you want to stay ahead of problems like this next winter, now is the perfect time to start planning.
