Initial observations of plastic-lined ponds for fingerling walleye production

Fish culture ponds are commonly fertilized to increase fish production through enhancement of the plankton forage base. Many fish culture facilities rely on natural production of zooplankton and aquatic insects as food sources for larval fish. Literature on pond fertilization regimes varies; recommendations range from no fertilization to a combination of inorganic and organic fertilizers. More research on the interactions among water quality, nutrients, plankton (phytoplankton and zooplankton) and fertilizers of the appropriate nutrient ratios is needed to move fertilization from an art to a science.