Florida pond

Question
I have a 7'x22' x 2.5'deep pond with goldfish.  No water problems, thankfully.

However, there are many leaves in the pond that have to be removed.  I bought one of those industrial vacuums with the supposed automatic pump to pump the leaves out.  However, it sucks alot of water out and stops too soon.

Is there a better way to get the leaves off the bottom of the pond (have river rock on the bottom - I know it's not preferable, but it was there when I moved here)

Also, I saw a small snake in the pond and since them am terrified to walk in it to cut plants, etc.  What type of protective covering would you recommend for me?  Would a wetsuit do the trick or do I need waders (they are so heavy to walk in in the pond.

Thanks
Barbara

Answer
Hi Barbara,
Thanx for your question.  Yes, the vaccum/pump is going to take a lot of water out of the pond.  I prefer to simply remove the debris (leaves) by hand.  Most snakes will try to get away from you as quickly as possible however to be on the safeside you may want to wear some of those playtex rubber gloves.  It would provide some protection.  For your legs and feet I would just wear some long slacks and tie them around the ankles so nothing can climb up the legs.  Use crocks or some other type of slip on shoe that is light weight.  I doubt if you're going to have much trouble with a small snake but I also understand your fear.  I hope this helps.
Tom