permaculture

304 Facilitator’s Handbook for Permaculture Workshops

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Presentation : Preparing ponds

Method : Facilitator presentation

Tools : Images, black/white board, markers

References : PC Book MOD 11 - Aquaculture

Objective    :  Participants    learn   about   preparing   self-sustaining ponds   for fish

To create a healthy, sustainable aquaculture system and good fish production, all the

components of the system need to be addressed as a whole.

This may include:

• Plants. • Manure. • Bacteria.


• Plankton. • Frogs. • Insects.


• Leaves. • Fruit. • Trees.


• Other animals. • People.

A healthy fishpond will have water that is light green in color. This means that

there is plenty of plankton and other foods for the fish. To achieve this light green color,

a fishpond needs to be properly prepared and well managed.

Step 1 - Prepare the fishponds

• Lime will balance any pH problems, especially in acidic soil and water, this will
  help keep the water clear. Lime will also help to control any initial pest and
  disease problems.


• Manure promotes plankton growth, which is an important natural food source
  for fish.


• Plant material will also promote bacteria and plankton growth and will provide
  fish food as well.

Step 2 - Provide shade if needed

• Some shade will keep the fishponds cooler which will improve production.


• Sun at least half a day of sunlight is recommended, morning sun is best.

Step 3 - Add water plants and animals

Water plants provide:

• Habitat for small fish.


• Food for the fish.


• Rotting leaves, which helps plankton and bacteria (fish food) to grow.