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Comet Goldfish in Large Spring-Fed Farm Pond: Winter Aeration

North Idaho 67x112 ft, 6-ft deep earthen pond, spring-fed. 70 comets stocked, now hundreds. Ice 5-6" thick. No electricity within 200 ft. Asks if gas-exchange hole needed and solar de-icer options.

Large Pond Winter Dynamics

Depth and volume prevent total freeze. Gas exchange occurs through large surface area; de-icer impact negligible.

Aeration Without Electricity

Windmill-driven aerators (see farm pond suppliers).
Passive: float large black objects (absorb heat, keep hole open longer).
Non-toxic floats (balls, jugs) disrupt ice formation.

No true solar de-icers exist. Windmill aeration is best off-grid option.

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