On Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:39:19 EDT, Elizabeth wrote:

Thanks, Dr Solo,
When we originally set up the pond, I used muriatic acid the break the
alkalinity, drop the pH and adjust the hardness. I must clarify that
these efforts were PRE-Fish. I corrected hardness, alkalinity, then
pH, much the same as one would do for a swimming pool. It's been many
years now and I don't recall how much acid was used, but I remember it
was ALOT.
Now, with the fish in the pond, I am not comfortable trying to break
the alkalinity ( oh it would be so easy).
Having done some research, I think my course of action will include
reef grade calcium chloride and magnesium. I believe it will be
soluble even in high KH/pH conditions.
Next question: Will it affect salt levels? And do salt tests measure
the sodium or the chloride?

Will report back on progress...
elizabeth, Baton Rouge

Do you have salt in there currently? If not, it shouldn't be that much of a
problem, but have a salt tester handy. ~ jan
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Zone 7a, SE Washington State
Ponds: www.jjspond.us