fishless plantless pond

Question
Can I add a natural product or a chemical to my water to keep it clean and not mess with water plants or fish.  My pond is too shallow to keep fish through our frigid winters.  Just having plants without fish sounds like a set up for green water.  I still want my dog to drink out of the pond too.


Answer
Hi Ann,
Thanx for your question.  Keep the water clean by using floaters like water hyacinth or water lettuce and a small brick of barley straw.  Your dog will be able to drink without any danger.  You should be able to find the barley straw at any nursery that sells watergardening supplies.  I hope this helps.
Tom