Pool problem

A pond does not need to freeze solid to deprive the water of oxygen, it only needs to freeze over by an inch thick for a few consecutive days to deprive a pond of oxygen and prevent toxic gases from escaping.

 

The classic advice on what not to do re. pond construction is site it in a dip prone to flooding and in a shady area, especially under trees. For exactly the reasons that you are now experiencing. Try to get hold of a copy of 'Ponds and Water Gardens' by Bill Heritage, (revised 2nd edition) ISBN 0-7137-1861-7
For a 2' x 2' pond it wouldn't be too arduous to convert it to a bog garden and re-site a pond somewhere more suitable.

 

Hi,

You do not mention the depth of your 2x2 ft pond , though assume its some form of plastic container rather than a liner ?

If the former then can you lift the container out, putting several inches of sand etc under it so its raised above the height of the flood water and put some plants/logs/ stones around the raised edge to help it blend in.
The other action would be to try and dig a sump or drain to take the flood water away from the pond.
As a last resort, relocate the pond to a better/higher position within that area or elsewhere ?

Usually find a smallish plastic football keeps the ice off better as its moved around a lot more by the wind, though until last weeks cold snap its the first time in many years that we have had thickish ice on the pond.

 

I have a wildlife pond. I use a mains connected pump to circulate the water and let it splash down again to the pond. Stops it becoming stagnant by putting oxygen into the water.