Pond Boss Magazine: From the Boss's Desk

Wow! I love when winter finally yields to spring—especially on the heels of this past winter. It’s funny to hear meteorologists talk about records and “normal.” What the heck is normal anymore? It was over 80 degrees at Christmastime here at Lusk Landing on the Brazos River. The grandkids were in the pool, we feasted at the table outside, and we sweated through most of hunting season.

Then, in late January, we joined much of the rest of the country with record low temperatures. An ice storm pummeled thirty‑five states, and many of us hunkered down for three days. Power was interrupted by fallen trees in parts of Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

I know you’re ready to unbuckle the seat belt on your ponds and lakes and take stock, so to speak. Spawning season is upon us, fish are staging, and some of those pesky underwater plants are ready to burst onto the scene. Pay attention to your pond—if you haven’t begun already.

As is our custom, we’ve got some good meat in this issue. We’re dovetailing a bit more from last issue’s heavy emphasis on water quality, and for good reason. After a harsh winter, your water has been tested. Good reason for you to test it as well.

In this issue, Mike Otto talks about hatchery ponds. Last fall he built two of them at West Haven Ranch, our host for the Institute of Higher Pondology. Beasley has a great follow‑up article about some cutting‑edge strategies for highly eutrophic ponds. Be sure to read the “Happy Water” article to gain an even deeper understanding of what makes water tick. We’ve also got a newsy, novel piece about an Indian tribe in Oklahoma and their approach to aquatic ecosystem health. Great stewardship—just like yours.

Oh, and speaking of last hunting season, there’s a tasty recipe for venison meatloaf. Excellent—and quite healthy as well.

On a personal note, I was honored to give the opening keynote address on the history of the lake‑management industry at the Society of Lake Management Professionals Summit in Orlando, Florida, last January. At the end of the three‑day meeting, they awarded yours truly their Lifetime Achievement Award.

It’s amazing what happens when you don’t quit when you probably should have years ago—and then live long enough.

Many blessings to you as well!

A series dedicated to Bob Lusk's general musings about land, water and life.