As the summer sun sets earlier and temps begin to drop, it's important to prepare your pond for surviving the coming winter. It takes a bit more than shutting off the pump and throwing a tarp on top to keep your ecosystem thriving and make a spring opening that much easier. What is vital for your pond, especially if you have fish, is to maintain acceptable oxygen levels throughout the bitter weather and get rid of as much decaying debris as possible because they give off toxic gas. When it comes down to it, is your pond ready for the fall? Leaves - Fallen leaves and other foliage that access your pond produce toxic gases as they decay, which can be harmful to fish and your ecosystem in general. Before the leaves begin to fall, put a protective net over the top to catch leaves. When it's time to close up the pond all you have to do is roll up the netting and toss out the leaves collected. Equipment - Now is the time for your pump and filters to be cleaned and prepared for