New Mexico State University’s Alumni Pond has entered the next phase of its ecological recovery, with the pond now stocked with bluegill, fathead minnows and channel catfish.
The stocking marks an important step in the continued restoration of the pond’s aquatic ecosystem. As the fish acclimate to their new environment and the ecosystem continues to recover, university officials encourage the campus community and visitors to enjoy the pond but not to fish just yet.
“Seeing fish return to Alumni Pond is a meaningful milestone in the restoration of this important campus resource,” said Robert Farrer, assistant director of Project Development and Engineering. “The stocking of bluegill, fathead minnows and channel catfish represents another step forward in rebuilding a healthy aquatic ecosystem. We’re excited about what the future holds for Alumni Pond and grateful to our campus community for helping us protect and restore it.”
The pond reopened to the campus community earlier this year, following key restoration work, including the installation of a new clay liner and refilling of the pond. Since then, the pond’s ecosystem has continued to recover and develop.
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is expected to resume its seasonal stocking program at Alumni Pond. Winter trout stockings are planned to begin in October and continue through March, followed by the pond’s summer stocking cycle, which includes channel catfish. The seasonal stocking program will continue as part of the pond’s ongoing management and ecological recovery.
When fishing becomes available, anglers will be required to follow applicable New Mexico fishing regulations, including obtaining a valid New Mexico fishing license.
University officials are also reminding visitors not to release or introduce fish, turtles, ducks or other animals into the pond. Since the pond is still in the early stages of ecological recovery, introducing animals can disrupt the developing ecosystem and negatively affect water quality.
Ducks can contribute nutrient-rich waste that may create unhealthy conditions for fish and other aquatic life.
For this reason, NMSU does not plan to reintroduce ducks to Alumni Pond and asks visitors not to release or introduce animals into the water.
Visitors should continue to remain out of the water. The clay liner is extremely slippery, and entering the pond can be dangerous. Pets should be kept out of aquatic plant areas.
NMSU plans to host a ceremony to celebrate the restoration and continued ecological recovery of Alumni Pond on Oct. 1. Additional details about the event will be announced in the coming weeks.