I'm doing some work at an estate with a pond and probably a spawning pond. I am interested in learning more about spawning ponds and in particular the plumbing.

The main pond is 3 acres created in 1940 by a dam capturing the flow of two streams. The stream below the dam eventually becomes quite large. Almost within the pond is a circular "spawning pond," created by a berm at the edge of the main pond. This feature is 1250 sq ft, 0.03 acres. No depth yet. The whole arrangement was created by a mad scientist and engineer. There is a brick building maybe 10x10' with pipes. I have been told there are fish in the pond but don't know what species yet. Due to snow cover and location I have only seen this on aerial photos.

I have been told this was a spawning pond where fish could breed year-round (NW Pa). There are pipes into the building from underground and at least one pipe with valve going into the pond.

Typically, how does a spawning pond work, what equipment, what functions? The story I am told, and most things I have been told are wrong, that warm water was supplied to the spawning pond to keep it open--a rich man's bubbler?--for year-round spawning. Is this possible?

I know some of you have spawning ponds and wonder what you think of what I will be looking at soon. I want to visit prepared to analyze a little better.

Any feedback is welcome and I will try to get whatever information you ask for shortly. Maybe pictures as well.

Thanks for a ponding history lesson.

Mike