Mid~Atlantic Koi The Magazine of the Mid-Atlantic Koi Club
May 2013
Mid~Atlantic Koi The Membership Magazine of the Mid-Atlantic Koi Club
Volume 26, Number 9
May 2013 Beginner’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
—Upcoming Events Long Island Chapter Meetings . . . . .34 3 MAKC Club Events . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Seminar
MAKC Corporate Members . . . . . . . . . . .7 Koi Buying Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Ray Jordan, Texas
Koi Buying Etiquette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Annual MAKC Meeting
Ray Jordan, Texas
MAKC Koi Show
Teach your Koi To Eat From Your Hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
—MAKC News
Don Harrawood, KHA, Texas
President’s Message . . . . . . . .3 From the Editor’s Desk . . . . . .6 MAKC Health Hotline Volunteers . . . . . . . .30 Treasurer’s Report . . . . . . . . .35 Sunshine Column . . . . . . . . .35 F..A..S..T Ads . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Ad Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Big Koi Caper – Part 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Carolyn Weise, Florida
Biofilm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Meyer Jordan, Florida
Lotus Care Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Oregon Aquatics
Growing The Saugerties Chapter Throughout the Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 RoseMarie Ehrich, New York
Mid-Atlantic Koi Deadlines for articles, meeting announcements and ads June Issue Deadline: Available Online:
May 1 June 1
July Issue Deadline: Available Online:
June 1 July 1
Preview to Spring at Adams' Garden Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Frank & Peggy Almquist, New York
Pond Water Contamination . . . . . . . . . .29 Don Harrawod, KHA, Texas
On the Road to a Koi Event . . . . . . . . . . .30 Long Island Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Philip Gray, Long Island
Picture to Share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 MAKC Membership Application . . . . .39 Picture of our Koi! Photo by Tom Graham
Page 2 Mid-Atlantic Koi
Mid-Atlantic Koi Magazine Editor, Carolyn Weise
makcmag@makc.com
(239) 573-6650 x105
Advertising Editor, Philip Gray
(516) 486-5163
philiegray@mac.com
Meeting/Events Editor, Joyce Spears (856) 478-2952 gjs63@comcast.net FAST Ads Editor, Ellie Cooper (610) 865-1163
mamakoi@verizon.net
Billing and Collections, Floyd Broussard (703) 491-4921
fbrou2801@verizon.net
May 2013
President’s Message by Philip Gray Suggestions4MAKC@gmail.com
Hello All, Club Election It is club election time which means that the club will begin to accept nominations for the following available positions: • President • Vice President • Treasurer • Secretary • Chapter Vice Presidents I want to strongly encourage all members to sincerely consider running for an available position. A club is made up of its members, and each member along with their respective opinions and skills only strengthens us. Please contact Bruce Levine, Nominating Committee at bruce@li-koi.com if you have any questions about the open positions or the nominating process.
Koi Show MAKC’s 2013 Annual Koi Show will be held from September 27-29, 2013 at Kodama Koi Garden at Waterford Gardens, 74 East Allendale Road, Saddle River, NJ 07458. We are delighted that Duc Nyugen has agreed to be the Show Chair. I will take on the responsibilities of Event Chair, and we are searching for two additional leaders: the Facility Chair who will have responsibility for managing the Show’s water quality and with his/her committee for the set-up and take-down activities. The other lead position is Fundraising Chair. This leader, along with their committee, will have responsibility for lining up sponsors, identifying and securing donations, and for finding trophy sponsors. Both May 2013
of these are key positions to ensure a successful event, so please call or email me to discuss your interest (Suggestions4MAKC@gmail.com or 516-967-4966). As always, I welcome your partnership in our upcoming collaborative events, as well as your suggestions about what kind of events and topics you would like to see MAKC provide to its members.
ZNA The MAKC will no longer have a ZNA Chapter. Membership has been shrinking over the last few years. Our membership is so spread out that we cannot have meetings to share Koi knowledge and learn about Koi, which is the mission of ZNA. I would encourage you all to maintain your ZNA membership through Tri-State Koi club or one that is close to you or to join to keep your NICHIRIN magazine has a listing of all the clubs. It my pleasure head up the Tri-State-ZNA Koi. It is my hope that you will all Tri State ZNA to continue members to learn about your Koi. Please contact Philip Gray at tristateznakoi@gmail.com.
Tri-State Koi Show 2nd Annual Tri-State Hobbyists & Breeders Koi Show held on Friday, May 31 – Sunday, June 2, 2013 at Freeport Recreation Center (130 East Merrick Road, Freeport, NY 11520). Local Accommodations: To make a reservation, please contact Best Western Mill River Manor at 516678-1300. Use Coupon Code: ‘TKC’ in order to reserve a room at this special discounted rate $129! (See more on page 32.)
Upcoming Events MAKC and the Tri-State ZNA Koi Clubs are working collaboratively on a number of events in 2013 to support each other’s annual Koi Shows President’s Message, continued on page 5
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 3
Beginner’s Corner Ask a question and we will get you an answer.
Question: How much should I feed my fish now that it is warmer?
Answer: Start at 45-50°F with wheat germ food once a day. At about 60°F start high protein food once a day. At 65-70°F feed twice or more a day.
Measure your largest fish and the smallest. From these you can get a good idea of the rest of the fish sizes. Then find your total inches on the chart and the corresponding weight of food, divide by the number of feedings per day. Don’t worry about being exact measuring, if you miss by an inch or two the food may be off by a couple of pounds, no problem. At this feeding rate your fish won’t be deformed from under feeding. Ammonia and Nitrite tests should be done on a regular basis. If readings are too high you may have to reduce feeding by percent or two.
Over 80°F reduce feeding amount and cool pond by using spray fountain, or put sail cloth over pond to reduce the temperature. New studies show the old gauge of what they will eat in 10 to 15 minutes is in question. The chart below shows what should be fed per day by total inches of fish.
Note: This column offers suggestions only; the ultimate care of your pond and fish is up to you. * Taken from “Feeding Koi” by Jeff Reiter, KHA, KOI USA, January/February 2013
Feeding Chart* Inches
4.0
8.0
13.0
15.0
19.0
21.7
24.0
25.2
26.5
28.2
29.9
31.0
Pounds
0.2
0.5
1.0
2.2
4.4
6.6
8.8
11.0
13.2
15.4
17.6
19.8
Inches
32.2
33.0
34.0
34.5
36.0
36.3
37.4
38.1
39.5
41.0
43.0
Pounds
22.0
24.2
26.4
28.6
30.8
33.0
35.2
37.4
39.6
41.8
44.0
MAKC Koi Show September 27 – 29 Page 4 Mid-Atlantic Koi
Wanted – Your Questions Please email your questions to makcmag@makc.com. We look forward to hearing from you! May 2013
Photo by Carolyn Weise
President’s Message, continued from page 3
and to better educate the Koi hobbyist. I am delighted to announce that on May 19th, both Clubs will be hosting a free seminar at which Masaru Saito from Shintraro Koi Farm in Japan will be talking about “Key Strategies and Techniques to Develop Quality Koi.” Saito San has been studying and raising Koi all his life, and his Go-Sanke are acknowledged as some of the finest in the world. In 1968 Saito San worked along side his father, Syosuke, raising Yamatonishiki , and then in 1994 he started Shintaro Koi Farm. Shintaro Koi Farm (www.shintarokoi.com) is a family owned and operated business, but many of Saito’s clients have traveled to his extensive mud ponds in Niigtata to help in the harvest and to learn more about raising exceptional Koi.
May 2013
This May, Saito will be bringing two Koi for each club to be raffled in support of the 2013 MAKC Koi Show. On the evening of May 19th Saito will be the honoree at a dinner to support both upcoming shows. The dinner is offered to MAKC and Tri-State ZNA members at a per person cost of $25. Space is limited for both events, so I encourage you to send your reservation promptly to Philip Gray, 211 S Ocean Ave., Freeport NY 11520. (RSVP, no later than May 1, 2013). Japanese translators will participate in both events to ensure that you can understand the Koi lessons that Saito San is bringing to us. I look forward to seeing you at these events.
www.makc.com Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 5
MAKC Executive Committee
From the Editor’s Desk
Philip Gray
by Carolyn Weise makcmag@makc.com
Bernie Szer
Vice-President (516) 241-4655
gasssman246@aol.com
Dinah Bwint
Secretary (610) 287-9178
sanke@verizon.net
Carolyn Broussard
(703) 491-4921
W
e’re in a “summer frame of mind” and gearing up for a beautiful season. Koi shows are in full swing, preparations being made, and I’m coming up for the Tri-State ZNA show (on LI) the end of this month. I can’t wait to see how our President’s pond held up to Sandy and I already know my friends in the Northeast are “real survivors.” I hope to see you at the show! In this month’s issue we have Koi Buying Basics (and Koi Buying Etiquette, which can’t be stressed too much or too often) from Ray Jordan. Please take a look at it. We all love to see vendor fish, but how often have we shopped for one (or two) and had someone butt in with “how much is that fish?” when it’s your fish he’s looking at? Not nice. Anyway, when you get your pond up and running, Don Harrawood has good suggestions on teaching them how to eat from your hand. We all know how much fun Mary Lou Sparks has with feeding her fish! Why not give it a try? I’ve also shared, in this issue, the first part of my big overhaul. My pond leaked for the past year and now is the time to get it done. It’s called the Big Koi Caper (parts I, II, III and so on!) Another very important article is BioFilm by Meyer Jordan. One year we had a mini-seminar by Doc Tepper at the LI Chapter, with microscopes, looking at samples of our bio-film. This, too, is a very important article written by a very exact author who knows his stuff. So, before you over-clean, read on… If you are considering pond “balance” using plants, there is a wonderful Lotus Care Sheet provided by Oregon Aquatics for your convenience. I believe Lotus to be the ultimate of aquatic plants and for our Koi ponds, they also have traditional lore from the Japanese of luck and longevity of life (actually it is a symbol of eternal life.) See the Preview to Spring at Adam’s Garden Show by Frank & Peggy Almquist. It’s almost like being there! We made room in this issue to include an article on Pond Water Contamination by Don Harrawood, KHA… My heartfelt appreciation for everybody who contributed to this issue! A happy & safe spring to all of you. Your Koi Friend,
Carolyn
Treasurer
Page 6 Mid-Atlantic Koi
lynlee4@verizon.net
Central Chapter Vice-President Looking for a Volunteer Long Island Chapter Vice-President Bruce Levine
(516) 735-2644
bruce@li-koi.com
North Chapter Vice-President Dan Bitcon
(973) 699-2186
DanVideo@aol.com
Saugerties (NY) Chapter Vice-President Herb Ehrich
(845) 247-7105
HerbEhrich05@yahoo.com
South Chapter Vice-President Chuk Nixon
(301) 717-7702
chuknixon@aol.com
Standing Committe es Membership Barry Hixson
(610) 262-5184 makcmembers@verizon.net AKCA Representative
Philip Gray
(516) 486-3807
philiegray@mac.com
MAKC Sales Ruth & Gene Rice
(304) 725-2333
sew4Koi@comcast.net
MAKC Notice Group Manager Michael Snyder
(301) 762-2059
makc@imsnyder.com
WebMaster Wayne Orchard
(828) 693-3851 waynesorchard@gmail.com Japanese Cultural Coordinator
Floyd Broussard
(703) 491-4921 fbrou2801@verizon.net
Exe cut ive B o ard Adv is or y Committe e Wayne Orchard Joe Zuritsky
(828) 693-3851 waynesorchard@gmail.com (215) 575-4001 jzuritsky@parkwaycorp.com
Betty Roemer
(828) 697-2692
roroemer@mchsi.com
Art Lembke
(410) 867-0270
artsKoi1@aol.com
Mike Riordan
(732) 747-6089
Koidog1@verizon.net
Gene Rice
(304) 725-2333
RiceGene@comcast.net
Eric Wilson
(613) 421-7890
wilseric@rogers.com
Susan Boland
(828) 693-3851
makcmag@gmail.com
Ellie Cooper
(610) 865-1163
mamakoi@verizon.net
Ja p a n es e Cul tur a l Adv is er Misa Sitterly
Mid-Atlantic Koi is the magazine of the Mid-Atlantic Koi Club. Material is selected for its interest to Koi keepers. MAKC accepts no responsibility for accuracy of content. Reproduction of uncopyrighted articles is permitted as long as this magazine is credited as the source.
President (516) 486-5163 philiegray@mac.com Cell (516) 967-4966
(703) 490-0770
sitterly@comcast.net
MAKC Home Page: http://www.makc.com
Production: Cindy Graham, TC Publishing, Inc.
May 2013
M A KC
Corporate
Members
www.mazuri.com
Quality Koi Company Nisei Koi Farm 856-299-7564 info@qualitykoi.com
www.qualitykoi.com
Interested in becoming a Corporate Member?
East Coast – Patio Ponds, LTD 301-874-8440 West Coast – Laguna Koi Ponds 949-494-5107
www.MatalaUSA.com May 2013
Reasonable one time fee for the year – includes a Business Card size ad in all issues in this section and on the MAKC website. Contact Barry Hixson at 610-262-5184 or makcmembers@verizon.net Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 7
Koi Buying Basics by Ray Jordan, Texas
your local club members for recommendations or ask hobbyists at shows with the type of Koi you like where they were purchased. If possible buy Koi in person so you can see them with your own eyes. Today’s high tech digital cameras often produce photos that look better than the Koi in real life. Inquire about dealer quarantine procedures and any testing or treatments preformed recently. New hobbyists would be wise to ask a more experienced Koi keeper to accompany them when buying Koi.
Kloubec Koi Farm – Seining grow out pond to select Koi for sell.
his article is meant to serve only as a basic guide. Each section that follows has been written to serve as an introduction to the topic and not a complete discussion. Joining a local Koi club and attending local club events are some of the best investments you can make as a Koi hobbyist to access the wealth of information available about keeping Koi. If you are wanting to buy some new fish this spring the fish dealers and our more experienced club members are more than happy to help you get the most for your money.
T
Buying Koi Deal only with experienced recommended dealers/breeders with excellent reputations. Ask Page 8 Mid-Atlantic Koi
Koi are individually unique creatures and their value/pricing depends on many factors including but not limited to dealer/breeder cost and expenses, perceived potential for future development, current quality, size, age, sex, and rarity. Koi shows help set the standards for how Koi rank against each other and these rankings ultimately help determine the prices for different levels of Koi quality. Or perhaps I should say Koi should be priced according to these standards.
Quarantine New Koi should be placed in a quarantine tank with a mature properly sized filtration system needed to provide excellent water quality and water temperature of 72-76°F for a period of at least 4 weeks. DO NOT buy more Koi than you can safely keep in your quarantine facility. In other words make sure your Q-tank is adequate in size for the number and size of the Koi you normally purchase. Also refrain from buying additional Koi until any Koi already in quarantine have finished their probationary period and released into your pond. This is a time for the Koi to rest and adjust to your local water parameters and be easily observed in case any health issues emerge. If health problems occur with new May 2013
Koi you do not want them exposed to your existing collection.
Koi Varieties Generally the more refined, popular, and difficult to breed varieties like Kohaku, Sanke, and Showa produce a smaller percentage of saleable Koi from each spawning. Since a good Sanke is much more rare than a solid colored Koi it will likely be more expensive than more simple single color varieties all other factors being equal. Additionally, the more refined varieties like Kohaku tend to retain their color and patterns much longer than some of the less refined types like kawarigoi. One way to view value is in terms of how long the Koi can hold its color and pattern. For example say a Koi costs $200 but stays nice for 5 years or longer it could be viewed as a better value than one that costs $50 but loses it bright colors and pattern in a single year.
Health Never buy a Koi or any fish that has a health problem or acting/swimming funny. Koi are schooling fish and before picking out the cutest or prettiest fish in a tank take a moment to watch it swim around. It should be swimming normally and easily and in sync with it’s tank mates. Avoid Koi that isolate from the other Koi in the tank. They should be able to swim easily and then coast or rest a moment but oriented correctly to tank surface. Avoid any that hang head down or head up out of sync with the other fish in the tank. Once you pick the fish you are interested it buying ask that it be placed in a small tub and check it very carefully for any torn or damaged fins, dings, cuts or scrapes. Don’t forget to check the bottom of the fish and look at it from all angles. If you have any doubts about the health of a fish you should pass on it and select another. Sick Koi can easily lose their bright colors which rarely return after disappearing.
May 2013
Looking at two impressive Koi courtesy of Koi Acres.
Quality Koi quality varies significantly even among siblings from the same parent Koi. Show quality Koi at most account for 2-5% of a spawn from the best proven parent Koi. This means they are rarer and cost more than pond quality Koi. It is not simple to define “show quality” unless you just say a Koi of significant quality likely to win an award at a show. Of course it also depends on the competition and size of the show. A show quality Koi is a good representation of its specific variety pattern and colors. Overall quality is a combination of body shape and size, skin refinement and sheen, color refinement, and also a pleasing and balanced pattern as defined by show standards. The more of these quality elements that occur in the same Koi the more rare and also higher the expected price.
Size Larger which usually but not always means older Koi will have more costs related to their being Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 9
Sex Female Koi tend grow larger and develop their colors slower than most male Koi. Most show awards for smaller Koi will be won by fast finishing males and most awards for larger Koi won by slower developing and finishing females. If you have a smaller pond, less than 3,000 gallons, consider buying males. Not only do males tend to cost less but they also develop their colors and pattern at a younger age (2-3 years) and tend to stay smaller than females making them better suited for a smaller pond. If you are buying baby Koi one year of age then know that the majority of Koi sold at that age will be males.
Courtesy of Kodama Koi Farm.
raised to this stage. Larger Koi in general cost more than smaller Koi of the same quality level. Because larger Koi are considered more impressive and more rare than average size Koi they are often priced at higher levels. However, be aware that the term “Jumbo Tosai” (large for it’s age baby Koi less than one year old) is commonly assumed that it will grow into a larger adult Koi. This can be misleading because the ultimate size of any Koi is a combination of genetics and environment. It is not uncommon for some baby Koi to be pampered in a greenhouse environment and grown at an accelerated rate and end up over 12˝ in length their first year. More traditional breeder practices grow the baby Koi only in the warmer months and let them spend their first winter in cooler temperatures that result in an average length of about 6-8˝ when they are one year old. Just be aware that larger baby Koi do not always end up as larger adult Koi. Page 10 Mid-Atlantic Koi
If you have a large pond and have lots of patience then female Koi might be for you. Females generally cost more and develop slower taking up to 68 years to peak in color and pattern development. However they also tend to keep their colors much longer. Since adult female Koi can easily reach 28˝ and some can exceed 36˝ a pond larger than 5,000 is recommended to allow female Koi realize their full potential. Most baby Koi less than two years old cannot be sexed accurately.
Age Koi are spawned in the late spring or early summer and harvested in the fall in most areas. Baby Koi are generally offered for sale the spring after they are hatched so they are about one year of age and have experienced a single growing season. Baby Koi less than a year old are called tosai. Most one year old Koi will average about 68˝ in length when sold. Most tosai will still have clear pectoral fins which is one way to tell a tosai from an older Koi that is just small for its age. After their second growing season Koi are called nisai and should average 12-18˝ and the third growing season they are called sansai and should be larger than 18˝. In general the younger the Koi the lower the cost given the same quality. This is because young Koi can change their colors and patterns significantly as they are still developing. May 2013
Koi felt by the breeder to have the potential to be worth a significantly greater amount in the future will be held back and grown another season or two. These Koi are called tategoi in Japan which means a Koi to keep.
Uniqueness and Rarity No two Koi patterns are exactly alike. Occasionally a Koi pattern will form a unique image and this can drive the price up significantly. Rarer types of Koi such as Gin Rin Tancho Showas can also be priced much higher than regular showa’s. Be aware that uniqueness or rarity does not necessarily correlate to quality which is the most important element in Koi value. If you purchase a baby Koi solely because the pattern resembles a tiger be prepared for the pattern to change. You might then realize some of the flaws overlooked in your fascination with the unique pattern that has disappeared.
May 2013
Future Potential Be aware that very few Koi we will ever see offered for sale will increase significantly in value or quality. Koi are living creatures and their value is based on their “beauty” and perceived future potential beauty. Remember that we are usually being sold Koi that the breeder did not feel would increase significantly in value and they are the experts in how their Koi will develop. Buy Koi based on how they look today and your observation or recommendations from more experienced Koi keepers or professionals that you respect. Do not get overly hung up on patterns as these can change over time. Besides a Koi with strong development and potential plus a great pattern would likely not be sold as a young Koi for a reasonable price for most of us.
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 11
Koi Buying Etiquette by Ray Jordan, Texas
2) If you are looking at some Koi that are for sale in a tank without specific pricing displayed it is fair to ask the price range to get an idea of their cost. 3) If you see a Koi you are interested in purchasing then ask for it to be placed in a tub so you can view it better.
uying new Koi can be one of the most exciting aspects of our hobby. Sometimes however the actual buying experience at a special Koi event can be disconcerting especially if you do not know the proper etiquette.
B
When buying Koi at a Koi event or at a Koi dealer’s facilities there are some important etiquette manners that should be observed. It is important to know what is considered appropriate behavior and polite courtesy when shopping for Koi. Those new to Koi keeping may get a bit over enthusiastic when viewing and buying Koi. A few points of etiquette to consider when buying Koi are as follows: 1) Generally it is first come first served at Koi sales. Rarely numbered tickets are given out to determine the order of the buyers. Most of the time you should indicate to the seller you would like to view some specific Koi and you will be told if you are next or 3rd, etc. in line to be waited on. Do not wander away or you might lose your place in the buying order. Page 12 Mid-Atlantic Koi
4) Once Koi are placed into a tub for viewing by the dealer for a prospective customer, no one else may select one of the Koi in the tub until the prospective customer releases the Koi back into the pond. For this reason tell the seller you want the Koi reserved for a specific time to make your decision if they are willing. If you just wander off it will be assumed that the Koi you are viewing are available to another buyer and released back into the tank. (And yes it is likely that the one you want but can’t decide on will be sold when you return) 5) The prospective buyer should not be conversed with during his perusing of the Koi in a tub by another prospective buyer. Nor should anyone else question the price of another buyers Koi in a tub. There is nothing more irritating or rude than to be studying a specific Koi you are thinking of May 2013
purchasing and have someone walk up and declare they want to buy that very Koi or make a negative remarks hoping to discourage the buyer so they can purchase it.
obnoxious customer to wait on one acting more courteous. 8) Give the person buying Koi a little space and hopefully you will get the same courtesy when it is your turn. 9) Do not assume anything when buying Koi. Ask lots of questions and expect to receive specific answers from the seller. Some potential questions might be about the breeder, sex of the Koi, age, when purchased by the dealer, dealer’s appraisal of the Koi’s potential, past health issues, etc. etc. 10) Generally Koi are sold “as is” so check your purchases carefully before completing the sale. Ask for any guarantees made by the seller in writing regarding any aspect of the sale.
6) Do not ask the price of a Koi except one on one with the dealer. It is particularly impolite to loudly question or haggle the price of a Koi with a crowd standing around. It is improper to expect the dealer to blurt out the price to anyone other than the prospective buyer. 7) Most experienced Koi dealers will ignore rude behavior and even skip past an May 2013
11) If you purchase Koi and they develop a health problem in the first few days you should call the dealer right away to discuss any potential treatments and to alert them that you are having problems. Better dealers want to build a relationship with customers and want to help with any problems before they get to the critical stage. Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 13
Teach your Koi To Eat From Your Hand by Don Harrawood, KHA, Texas
oi are very sociable critters and love to stay in a group. They also are less shy when in a group. Your Koi can be trained to eat from your hand if you have enough patience to earn their friendship and trust.
K
before they start to eat. They need to learn that their food comes from you and that you are not a predator. The bravest and hungriest will start to eat and the others will follow. Withhold food for a day or two if they will not eat during your presence, then try again.
Feed them in the same place every time. Drop a small handful of feed in the water and stay there and observe their actions. They must see you when they eat. Do not walk away from the pond
Gradually your Koi will equate you with their food. Place your hand close to the water and tease them closer to your hand with sprinklings of food. Put your hands in the water while they
Page 14 Mid-Atlantic Koi
May 2013
Make sure you have adequate filtration for the waste produced by the number of Koi you have and amount of food that you feed. Nothing is more important for the health of your Koi than good water quality, and water quality is greatly dependent on adequate filtration.
eat. Start with just a few pellets and they gradually will understand that their food comes from your hand. Eventually the bravest will start nudging your hand for food. It will be just a matter of time that their friendship and trust will be yours. Soon all your fish will swim, jump and splash toward you every time you approach the pond. With some patience, you will be able to tickle their chin, rub their backs, and they may even suck on your fingers.
Many pond owners are unaware that while Koi are basically bottom feeders in nature, they eat quite a bit of algae. Although large amounts of pond algae are unsightly, Koi enjoy the benefits of being able to eat algae when they want and as much they want. They generally eat the short "fuzzy" string algae that form on the pond bottom and sides, and ignore the long stringy algae. Some amount of algae is a healthy condition in our ponds. In the presence of no feed available (such as vacations), Koi will survive on algae for a considerable period of time. ď ś KHA Southwest Koi and Pond Association SKAPA NEWSLETTER August 2012
In the summer months, Koi will have big appetites and when water gets colder, the amount of food they want will be less. Make sure that you do not over feed your Koi because uneaten food will deteriorate your water quality. Since Koi have no stomach in which to store food, it is best to feed them less at more frequent intervals. As a rule of thumb, Koi should be fed at least twice per day. Koi will eat almost anything that a human does, including meats, vegetables, fruits and cereals. They enjoy treats such as Cheerios and chopped fruits and vegetables. They may need some time in which to get used to strange food. The best diet for them is a well balanced commercial Koi food with a fish derived protein of 30 to 40%.
May 2013
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 15
The Leaky Pond!
Big Koi Caper – Part 1 by Carolyn Weise, Florida
t all started with the usual – pond leaks – the type that required a weekly refill of 1´ or more of well water. The water was going – where?? I could find none of the traditional “wet spots” around the perimeter of the pond, although half of the perimeter is building (my house and deck area). I found a small fissure (crack) in the pond wall against the house.
I All the Koi had to be caught and moved to their temporary home.
This pond was built in 2007 and as I remembered was concrete covered with Diamondbrite, a standard pool finish here in Florida. What I forgot was that only the top 18˝ was concrete block! The pond is 5´ deep—the rest of it is something like “metal cloth” with stucco (?) on it, covered with Diamondbrite. Well, it is what it is. Or, it was what it was and now it is leaking. The reason it is leaking is that the original builder installed a very, very heavy concrete Bakki housing around the 2 outside walls (which are not supported by concrete below the initial 18”, remember). Eventually the light sand/ clay/dirt/shell substrate “settled” under all that
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May 2013
Two of the dreaded leaks!
added weight. It has pulled down these 2 sides, putting stress on the integrity of the whole pond. And so it leaks… I’ve also noticed a pocket of air, somewhere about 1’ from the bottom, that continuously burped up air from the wall against the house. Now, why would air be bubbling out of the wall? Put it all together you have the makings of a good mystery, or a bad problem, not sure which. I talked to a few people and we decided it was worth looking into before my house was sucked into a sink hole. The next problem was: what to do with the fish??? I have 8 large Koi and no quarantine facilities. I got rid of the big tank that brought down from NY when I moved because it just took up too much space. Somehow I knew I’d live to regret that. Oh, and next month (March) I will be picking up the new Koi at the Central Florida Koi Show. She’s been in the mud pond for the last 2 years in NJ. Wow, TWO big problems and I can’t fix one without the other. Stay tuned, more to come in the next issue.
May 2013
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 17
Biofilm by Meyer Jordan, Florida
complex structure adhering to surfaces that are regularly in contact with water, consisting of colonies of bacteria and usually other microorganisms such as yeasts, fungi, and protozoa that secrete a mucilaginous protective coating in which they are encased. Biofilms can form on solid or liquid surfaces as well as on soft tissue in living organisms, and are typically resistant to conventional methods of disinfection.
A
"
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Dental plaque, the slimy coating that fouls pipes and tanks, and algal mats on bodies of water are examples of biofilms. While biofilms are generally pathogenic in the body, causing such diseases as cystic fibrosis and otitis media, they can be used beneficially in treating sewage, industrial waste, and contaminated soil." (The American Heritage速 Science Dictionary) Biofilms are a crucial part of an aquatic ecosystem. The microorganisms that make up biofilms form the basis for food webs that May 2013
nourish larger organisms such as insect larvae, which are consumed by fish. Even plants benefit from naturally occurring biofilms. The instant that the first water contacts any surface of your pond, whether it be liner, rock, filter media, plants etc., biofilm begins to form. Initially the first surface deposit is dissolved organics, which neutralize the electrical charge of the surface, which would otherwise repel bacteria and other microorganisms. This initial layer of organics also serves as a nutrient source. Bacteria then begin to colonize the surface by secreting strands of sticky polymers, which holds the biofilm together and secures it to the surface. These polymers also serve to trap nutrients and act as very strong protective barrier against toxins. As nutrients accumulate, the original bacteria multiply. These offspring bacteria produce their own sticky polymer. Soon a colony of bacteria is established. Once a certain population level is reached, a process called ‘quorum sensing’ occurs. Quorum sensing is a cell-cell communication mechanism used by several bacterial taxa to coordinate gene expression and behavior in groups, based on population densities. Biofilm is made up of microorganisms and a polymeric web Interestingly, in a well established biofilm, most of the volume is the sticky polymer matrix (75%-95%). This matrix holds quite a bit of water and makes the biofilm covered surface slippery. This is why, especially in bare liner ponds, is it difficult to maintain traction while you are walking in your pond. A fully developed biofilm is a complex mutually beneficial community of various microorganisms living in a customized microniche. “Different species live cheek-by-jowl in slime cities, helping each other to exploit food supplies and to resist antibiotics through May 2013
neighborly interactions. Toxic waste produced by one species might be hungrily devoured by its neighbor. And by pooling their biochemical resources to build a communal slime city, several species of bacteria, each armed with different enzymes, can break down food supplies that no single species could digest alone. The biofilms are permeated at all levels by a network of channels through which water, bacterial garbage, nutrients, enzymes, metabolites and oxygen travel to and fro. Gradients of chemicals and ions between microzones provide the power to shunt the substances around the biofilm.” Slime City (Coghlan 1996) A mature biofilm may take several hours to several weeks to develop. A fully developed biofilm is able to move water through the entire matrix, supplying nutrients and transporting wastes. Biofilms may be very thin to several inches thick. The biofilms that are usually encountered in an aquatic eco-system are measured in microinches. A microinch is equal to one-millionth of an inch. The congregation of multiple species into biofilm microcosms increases the range of substrates that can be biodegraded. In aquatic systems the biofilm bacterial count per square centimeter of surface has been estimated to be approx 1000-fold higher than the corresponding planktonic count per cubic centimeter Biofilm covers every submerged and constantly wet surface associated with a pond. It is on the rock, liner, plants, skimmer, biofilter and media, even inside of the pump and related piping. The biofilm in one location will be different in make up than that in another location. Factors such as light, water movement, temperature and availability of nutrients will determine the member microorganisms of each community. The very same parameters that we test for to ensure healthy fish also influence the membership of the biofilm community. Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 19
It is within this biofilm that nitrification and denitrification take place along with other chemical and organic conversion processes. Research has revealed that nitrifying biofilm when subjected to temperatures of 4°C./39°F. did not exhibit any significant changes in volume and continued to perform even at these low temperatures, reducing ammonia levels from 25 mg/L to zero within 40 to 48 hours. This seems to contradict the previous held belief that nitrification was substantially reduced at temperatures this low. Biofilm is the primary source of production in an aquatic system. It is what sustains all higher levels of aquatic life. Revised: Mar. 30, 2013 by author
Need to Change Your email or Home Address? Have Questions about your Membership Status? Contact:
Barry Hixson 5465 Towanda Dr. Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-262-5184 or makcmembers@verizon.net Renew Your MAKC Membership Online with a credit card?
Go to Credit Card Payments at www.makc.com Page 20 Mid-Atlantic Koi
May 2013
May 2013
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 21
Lotus Care Sheet Provided by Oregon Aquatics
Reprinted from the Inland Empire Water Garden & Koi Society
(Lotus – Genus Nelumbo; species N. nucifera, N. lutea, and hybrids)
otus are beautiful and surprisingly winter hardy aquatic plants. Here are a few care tips:
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Light and Heat Lotus will handle some shade, especially in warmer climates, but to grow and bloom their best they prefer full sunlight. The main exception Page 22 Mid-Atlantic Koi
is in hot desert climates, where some shade cloth is desirable. Lotus require temperatures of at least 75°F. for at least three months in summer to do well. Potting: Standard lotus cultivars can grow 5´ or taller. In order to do this, and to also maximize the size and frequency of bloom, they should be potted into a container a minimum of 2´ across. A container of 3´ – 5´ across will create a striking display specimen. While some people use plastic or ceramic pots on their deck or patio, others use bathtubs or small pre-formed ponds May 2013
lift and draw away that edge of the smaller pot. This will effectively separate the lotus root mass and soil from the pot with minimal trauma. Place the mass in the center of the larger pot, put the fertilizer around the root mass on the bottom of the pot; gently fill in the pot with soil around the root mass so that the soil level in the new pot is about the same as in the old pot. If some of the leaves don’t stand as upright as before, you may stabilize them with string if you like, but the new leaves that grow will be vertical and stable.
Setting Lotus Loose in Ponds Lotus Bud
in the landscape, or create a header pond above the main pond, fill it with pea gravel and lotus, and use it as a beautiful plant filter for the main pond. If using lotus in the main pond, a container without holes, and much wider than it is high, is best. Use a good garden soil with a low organic content, either sandy or clay or anything between (a mix of clay and sand is ideal). Do not use a commercial house plant or garden mix, as the ingredients float. Only 4˝ of soil is required, leaving room for the soil to push upward as it is filled with runners and tubers. Aquatic containers for lotus are available that are about 2´ across and only 7˝–10˝ deep. Most dwarf lotus cultivars are capable of getting 3´ to 4´ tall. They can tolerate smaller containers, but will also perform better in containers about 24˝ across. Moving lotus into a larger pot is most easily accomplished in the spring when lotus are just waking up. However, if you just purchased an actively growing lotus, the best time to up-pot it is now, because a larger plant performs and over-winters better; if you don’t do it now you may never get around to it. Just place the lotus and its pot inside the larger pot. Slip your hand inside the pot between the pot and the root mass of the lotus. While gently gripping the root mass and pulling on it with one hand, use your other hand at the opposite edge of the smaller pot to gently May 2013
Lotus love this, and it works well if you don’t mind the entire pond filling with lotus, which is what will most likely happen. For a more balanced pond with open water areas and/or
Lotus come in a variety of colors.
other pond plants (including waterlilies), keep lotus contained. Containers must have no holes, and the occasional runner may still “jump the pot” and need trimming.
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 23
Water Chemistry Lotus are extremely adaptable to different water chemistries. However, if your water source has very hard and alkaline water full of minerals, growing lotus in above ground pots can result in a harmful accumulation of minerals in the water over time; when water evaporates, the minerals stay behind, and more are added each time water is added. To prevent this, it is important to occasionally flush out (over-fill) the pot with fresh water while re-filling to replace evaporation. This is less likely to be a problem in a larger pond, but occasional over-filling may still be beneficial. Lotus don’t tolerate much over 1000 ppm water hardness.
Pruning
Fertilizer Use a good aquatic plant fertilizer, either fast or slow release, and follow the instructions. Because lotus grow vigorously, use double the amount of fertilizer per gallon of soil that the label recommends for hardy waterlilies. In the spring, lotus will make floating leaves first, then standing leaves. It is best to begin fertilizing when the lotus is starting to make standing leaves, because it is hard to over-fertilize a fast growing lotus, but it is easy to over-fertilize them when they are just beginning to sprout. In the autumn, stop fertilizing so that lotus can exhaust the fertilizer in their pot in preparation for dormancy.
Water Depth The soil in the container should have at least 2˝ to 4˝ of water over the top of it, so that the soil is always under water. Taller standard lotus can grow in water up to 18˝ deep or even deeper, but it takes more energy, and in spring and in cool climates lotus benefit from the extra warmth in shallow water. Dwarf lotus should be grown in water between 2˝ and 12˝ deep.
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When pruning or trimming, never cut flower or leaf stems below the water level, as roots and tubers use stems (even dead ones) to help provide oxygen. When lowering lotus for winter, prune after lowering.
Living with Koi and Goldfish Goldfish are not normally a problem with lotus. Larger Koi can disturb the soil, and even pick on the floating leaves. We generally recommend using enough plants in a Koi pond that Koi do not focus all their energy on just a few plants, and that usually works. You can also place the pots close to the surface and place rocks on the soil that are too large for the Koi to move easily. For extremely large and determined Koi, rocking off a corner for the lotus will work.
Overwintering Lotus can overwinter in ponds even in Michigan or Minnesota, so long as the tubers are protected from ice. In colder climates (zone 5 or lower), this is usually provided by dropping the lotus to the bottom of a deeper pond (below the frost depth), then raising it again in the spring; or move into a frost -protected garage. In zones 6 or 7, we recommend mulching around aboveMay 2013
making new pots. This may also be necessary every few years for older pots that are overcrowded and have exhausted their soil. The growing points on lotus tubers are very fragile and easily snap off. While there are usually a couple of growing points on each tuber, if you break them all off the tuber will not sprout, no matter how big or fat it is.
Springtime Hints
ground pots in winter; pots in even a shallow pond are fine. In zones 8 or above (and often in zone 7), even lotus in above ground pots may be left outside unprotected. In all zones, our lotus will go dormant in winter; they form overwintering tubers with growing points that send out runners each spring.
Lotus love warmth. If you pull your lotus container out of the pond and place it in full sun in the spring (after frost danger is over), the lotus will grow faster because it will warm up more. Keep some water over the soil, and return it to the pond by early summer, once warm weather is here to stay. For even more accelerated growth, you may cheat by placing a small wattage (say 50 or 100 watt) submersible aquarium heater in the
Insects may differ according to geography. Because lotus leaves have fine hairs, insecticides (even organic ones) with oils or detergents will harm (even kill) lotus. For aphids, white fly and spider mites, use diatomaceous earth powder, either dry or mixed into a water solution and sprayed on (the systemic pesticide Marathon also works extremely well, but should not be used with any aquatic animals and is not labeled for aquatic use). For China mark moth, which takes big chunks out of the floating leaves, use Dipel or another brand of Bt for caterpillars. Once several standing leaves are up you may remove all floating leaves, which eliminates mark moth as a problem and also slows down aphids. If slugs or snails can get on your lotus, try moving them farther from the pond edge.
Repotting When lotus just begin to show leaf spikes in the spring, their tubers may be carefully divided for May 2013
Photo  by  Tamara  Kilbane
Pests
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 25
container for a month or so. This will cost almost nothing to run and will really speed up the growth. With dwarf lotus, you may even use a 70 watt ThermoPlanter for a container, and leave it in the pond. The ThermoPlanter is an electrically heated aquatic pot (about 2.75 gallons capacity). It is thermostatically controlled and inexpensive to operate.
Edibility In various cultures, most of the lotus plant is eaten, including the tuber, seed, stem, and leaf. Leaves are also used as wraps in cooking. While the tuber of ornamental lotus may be eaten, various cultivars grown specifically for tuber production are superior for this purpose. ď ś Reprinted from Oregon Aquatics, www.oregonaquatics.com
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May 2013
Growing The Saugerties Chapter Throughout the Winter by RoseMarie Ehrich, New York
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everal members of the Saugerties Chapter have spent this long, long winter busy with Koi events.
In spite of the cold temps and numerous snowstorms, Harriet and Paul Tomasko took the lead in promoting MAKC at Adams Fairacre Farms in Kingston, NY. Adams hosted a Koi event on January 30 as part of their Winter Seminar Series. A Koi workshop and MAKC membership table were an important part of this event. A valuable PowerPoint presentation was done by Frank and Peggy Almquist. Participation and input from Suzanne Terpening, Jack Paparo, and Bernie Carroll were intregal parts of our Chapter's attempt to educate and inform the public about the
art of koikeeping. Sharing with others the good news that our Saugerties Chapter is alive and well! During the weekend of March 2 & 3, Adams hosted a Garden Show. We were invited to participate, and we gladly accepted. This show gave those present a glimpse into the upcoming and much needed spring season. Frank and Peggy took the lead on this amazing weekend. They prepared for many weeks prior, creating a Koi identification poster and a beautiful table covering made from fabric featuring brightly colored Koi. All this was in an attempt to share with others priceless information and to increase membership. See article by Frank and Peggy on the next page.
Free Library in Memory of Allan Engle Memoriam Allan R. Engle Boonton Township 3/21/13 – Age 73 Born in Allentown, PA Contributions to Mayo Clinic for renal cancer appreciated via http://www.mayoclinic.org/ kidney-cancer/research.html
Free Library On Easter, Elizabeth (Allan’s youngest daughter) and her family posted this picture on facebook … not a dry eye in the house… “In loving memory of my dad, Allan Engle's 26,716 days of life...and his love of reading. May 2013
We built a "Little Free Library" and garden, in front of our house. It is a world wide grass roots program to share books with neighbors.” Shared by – Carol Engle MAKC Member
Learn more at www.littlefreelibrary.org Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 27
Preview to Spring at Adams' Garden Show by Frank & Peggy Almquist, New York
We collected approximately 20 names of those who expressed interest in koikeeping and wanted pond information. These folks will be contacted with an invitation to attend a club meeting where their questions will be answered.
dams Fairacre Farms held it's annual Garden Show on March 1-3 in their Kingston NY facility. The Saugerties Chapter of MAKC was invited to participate. The goal was to share Koi information with others and hopefully recruit new members. Back issues of MAKC magazines were given to folks who expressed an interest in the club. Approximately one hundred fliers describing the Saugerties Chapter were distributed.
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Frank & Peggy Almquist, and Jack Paparo volunteered their time during the Garden Show. They set up a table covered with impressive Koi themed fabric and on display were boards showing photos of two members' ponds, and their Koi, as well as photos of other Koi and posters that helped identify Koi patterns. Adams' facility in Kingston is one of four stores. Their outstanding displays of blooming spring plants and trees are carefully arranged. The Kingston store has always featured a Koi pond. The show, which lasts 10 days, is a preview of spring, a welcome relief during the grey Northeast winter. ď ś May 2013
Pond Water Contamination by Don Harrawood, KHA, Texas
Check your pond bank to make sure the soil outside of the pond slopes away from the pond and not toward it. Heavy rains can cause lawn chemicals to run into the pond when the slope does not prevent it. Lawn chemicals and insect sprays can cause massive fish kills in ponds. Avoid roof overhangs above the pond. Rain water washes all sorts of contaminated materials off the roof. When these impurities are washed into the pond, the water becomes contaminated with unknown foreign materials that are unhealthy for Koi. Avoid a heavy layer of muck in the bottom of the pond. This is decayed material that will expel hydrogen sulfide gas into the pond water. Excess hydrogen sulfide gas can cause Koi to acquire damaged gills and can negatively affect their immune system, which makes them prone to body ulcers and other unhealthy conditions. uring the year, many of us apply fertilizer to our lawns in order to get an early start on grass development. This is a reminder that while applying fertilizers or other chemicals to your yard, avoid getting any of it into the pond water. Also avoid insect sprays being applied near the pond. Wind can sometimes carry spray toward the pond and contaminate the water surface. Koi do not like fertilizer or insect spray in their water, and may die because of it. If you have a lawn maintenance person, make sure and warn them to avoid getting fertilizer and insect spray near or into the pond water. It takes very little of these poisonous materials to affect or kill your Koi.
D May 2013
SKAPA personnel can test for the most frequent water contamination conditions, such as ammonia, nitrites, pH, oxygen, etc.; however they cannot check water for poisons and fertilizers. To test for these chemicals, a sample of the pond water must be sent to a laboratory for testing. This test can be costly, since the lab will need to test for numerous chemicals in order to find the offending substance. ď ś
www.makc.com Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 29
On the Road to a Koi Event May 4–5 Lone Star Koi Club and Houston Pond Society Annual Water Garden & Pond Tour Houston, TX • www.lonestarkoi.com www.houstonpondsociety.org May 17–19 Middle Georgia Koi Society 5th Annual Koi & Goldfish Show Georgia National Fairgrounds, Perry, GA www.middlegakoisociety.com May 25–26 The Greater Louisville Koi & Goldfish Society Koi Show www.louisvillekoiclub.com. May 31–June 2 Pond and Water Garden Show Freeport, Long Island Contact: Philip Gray, 516-967-4966 philiegray@mac.com www.TristateZNAKoiClub.com July 12–14 Midwest Pond & Koi Society Annual Koi Show (MKPS) www.mpks.org. August 30–September 1 MKPC’s Second Koi Show/Ikona Koi Show Held at The Pond Place in Milford, Michigan. www.mkpc-se.com
Watergarden Society. This will be their 5th Annual Show. http://www.nckws.net September 27–29 Mid-Atlantic Koi Club Koi Show Held at Kodama Koi Gardn at Waterford Gardens in Saddle River, NJ www.makc.com October 4–6 South Carolina Koi & Goldfish Show Simpsonsville, SC Contact: Jim Suerth, Co-Chair 864-879-1369 Have an upcoming Koi event, please send the information to makcmag@makc.com. We will be glad to include it in future articles. Don’t forget your own MAKC Club has events coming up that can be found in our digital magazine or at www.makc.com. We always need volunteers for meetings and shows. We hope to see more of you visiting shows, attending club meetings, and volunteering to help at Koi events this year. It is amazing how much you can learn by helping. Take advantage of being an MAKC member and participate in the club events. See you soon at a Koi event.
MAKC Health Hotline Volunteers Tom Burton Jan & Bill Fogle Floyd Broussard Terri Janas Jeff Nicholson
Middletown, NJ Wayne, PA Woodbridge, VA Ashburn, VA Odenton, MD
732-671-7045 610-687-3105 703-491-4921 703-729-2988 301-912-1928
September 6–8 ZNA Potomac Koi Club’s 20th Annual Show See www.znapotomac.org.
All members have microscopes and health books. In the event of a recorded message, please suggest a time when you're home to receive a return call or when you'd like to call back.
September 20–22 Carolina Classic Koi Show Hosted by the North Carolina Koi and
Please remember that advice is given based on your input–the ultimate responsibility and treatment must remain with you.
Page 30 Mid-Atlantic Koi
May 2013
Mid-Atlantic Koi Show
Held at – Kodama Koi Garden at Waterford Gardens 74 East Allendale Rd. Saddle River, NJ 07458
September 27 - 29 Mark your Calendars! May 2013
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 31
A Long Island Show for Koi & Garden Enthusiasts Pond and Water Garden Show May 31 – June 2 Freeport, Long Island
“A Trip to Japan Just Around the Corner!” ou don’t need a long and expensive flight to Japan to enjoy the beauty of rare show-quality Koi and to learn what you can do to make your backyard pond and garden an oasis of serenity. For the second year the Tri-State Area will host a weekend of free events featuring spectacular Koi, as well as experts in pond and garden design. This “Pond and Water Garden Show” will be held on May 31 – June 2, 2013 in Freeport, Long Island.
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Visitors will be able to see some of the top quality Koi in the entire United States, as well as having the opportunity to bid on Koi from Japan. This three-day event will showcase standard Koi breeds such as Showa, Kohaku, and Sanke, as well as distinctive breeds such as Shiro Utsuri, Karashigoi, Goshiki, Kawarigoi, and Asagi – not often seen outside of Japan. If you love Koi, this is a must-visit show! This free Pond and Water Garden Show is open to the public and will be held at the Freeport Recreation Center on Long Island (130 East Page 32 Mid-Atlantic Koi
Merrick Road, Freeport, NY 11520 – at Liberty Avenue- 20 minutes from JFK Airport). The exhibit hours are Friday May 31 from noon until 5:00 pm; Saturday, June 1 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; and Sunday, June 2 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. A special lodging rate is available at Best Western Mill River Manor – Use coupon code TKC for a rate of $129/night (173 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre – 516-678-1300).
Some ways in which this Show will Transport you to Japan There will be Koi on exhibition from Japanese Breeders. If you choose to attend the banquet on Saturday night at Best Western Mill River Manor (banquet charge of $35/person requiring separate registration) you will have an opportunity to participate in a raffle and auction featuring Japanese Koi. Japanese judges, Tomio Motodo and Takeshi Yamamoto, are coming from Japan to participate as featured judges throughout the Show. These gentlemen bring more than 50 years of experience in the skill of raising and judging Koi. Japanese translators will be available so that you can have the benefit of their wisdom and expertise. Over the three days of exhibition more than 12 different workshops will provide detailed information on both raising and caring for Koi, as well as enhancing your garden and pond. Each of these workshops is led by an expert, with many May 2013
leaders traveling from across the country to share their knowledge. The workshops included: What Makes A Show Koi Nutrition Tips for Healthy Fish Essentials in Growing Healthy Koi Key Factors in Building Your First Pond Advanced Components of Water Garden Designs to name a few. Check the website for updates and times of workshops that interest you.
Kids are Encouraged to Participate Philip Gray, President of the Tri-State ZNA Koi Show, will once again lead an interactive workshop on both Saturday and Sunday - “How to Raise and Care for Healthy Gold Fish in your Family Aquarium.” Be sure to signup for this workshop when you come to the Show, as the first forty families will receive a free goldfish, aquarium, and initial food supply.
Hobbyists and Breeders What will distinguish this Show from other Koi Shows is that there will be separate categories of judging for Koi exhibited by Koi Hobbyists and Koi on display from Koi Breeders. More than 40 trophies will be awarded for entrants in all the thirteen different varieties of Koi, as well as all the different size categories. Participants will have an opportunity to see show Koi that are rarely on display outside of the All Japan Show in Tokyo.
Vendors and Raffle This Show will also include more than twenty vendor booths allowing the public to purchase Koi, as well as all sorts of supplies, food and equipment to support their Koi hobby. Gardeners will be able to consult with representatives from Cipriano Nursery, and kids can even purchase goldfish at Kimmy Koi Art. There will be something to tempt everyone among the vendor exhibits or to window shop for new ideas May 2013
for your garden or pond. On Sunday there will be a raffle of items donated by the vendors. Everyone who attends the weekend has an opportunity to receive a special memento for his or her visit to Freeport. This show is being hosted by the Tri-State ZNA Koi Club. Tri-State ZNA Koi Club is affiliated both with Zen Nippon Airinkai in Japan and with the Associated Koi Clubs of America. TriState Koi Club delivers all of its programs with a strong educational focus and a welcoming spirit that encourages folks at all interest levels to come see exceptional show fish and to learn more about caring for Koi and for their gardens and ponds. For the latest information about this show please go to the ZNA Club Website at www.TristateZNAKoiClub.com. CONTACT: Philip Gray, Event Producer & President of the Tri-State ZNA Koi Club 516-967-4966 philiegray@mac.com
Mid-Atlantic Koi Page 33
M A KC E v e n t s Long Island Chapter Seminar Sunday, May 19 1:00 p.m. Held at Philip Gray’s 211 South Ocean Ave Freeport, NY 11520 516-209-3841 philiegray@mac.com
MAKC Upcoming All Chapter Events Seminar – The Development of Quality Koi Sunday, May 19 Key Speaker Mr. Saito, Shintaro Koi Farm, Japan Dinner $25 (proceeds to support the MAKC Koi Show)
Upcoming Chapter Meeting
MAKC and the Tri-State ZNA Koi Clubs are working collaboratively on a number of events in 2013. I am delighted to announce that on May 19th, both Clubs will be hosting a free seminar at which Masaru Saito from Shintaro Koi Farm in Japan will be talking about “Key Strategies and Techniques to Develop Quality Koi.” Saito San has been studying and raising Koi all his life, and his Go-Sanke are acknowledged as some of the finest in the world. In 1968 Saito San worked along side his father, Syosuke, raising Yamatonishiki , and then in 1994 he started Shintaro Koi Farm. Shintaro Koi Farm (www.shintarokoi.com) is a family owned and operated business, but many of Saito’s clients have traveled to his extensive mud ponds in Niigtata to help in the harvest and to learn more about raising exceptional Koi.
Sunday, June 9
Annual MAKC Meeting
RSVP Philip Gray Cell 516-209-3841 or email philiegray@mag.com. Seminar conducted by Mr. Saito from Shintaro Koi Farm in Japan. He will bring in 2 Koi to be auctioned off. The proceeds will go toward the upcoming MAKC Koi Show. We will be hosting a dinner in honor of Mr. Saito after the Seminar. The dinner will cost $25.00 per person. Contact Bruce Levine if you have questions bruce@li-koi.com • Cell: 516-477-1823
MAKC Meeting – see information under Annual MAKC Meeting.
Sunday, July 21 Pond Tour – let me know if you would like us to visit your pond
Sunday, August 18 BBQ - let us know if you are interested in hosting this event.
Sunday, June 9 Held at Steve and Nancy Borakowski 15 Whitetail Lane Commack, NY 11725 631-499-0363 sborakowski@optonline.net Our Annual MAKC meeting will be held in June. We will vote for our MAKC officers. Steve Borakowski will educate us on "Shade Sails. He will talk about their importance for a Koi Pond and how to install them.
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May 2013
MAKC Koi Show September 27 – 29 Held at Kodama Koi Farm at Waterford Gardens 74 East Allendale Road Saddle River, New Jersey
Send your meeting and event information to Joyce Spears 856-478-2952 or gjs63@comcast.net. Deadline May 1st for the June 2013 issue.
Sunshine Column Denise Gray, wife of MAKC’s President Philip Gray, broke her leg last month. We need her back on her feet because she's the wind beneath Philip's wings! We wish you a speedy recovery. Our condolences to Carol Engle for the loss of her husband Allan Engle. (Also see page 27.) Please continue to keep Charlie and Brenda Atwell in our thoughts as Charlie is having a very difficult time recovering from an automobile accident. Know someone to list in our Sunshine Column - Email Carolyn Weise, Editor makcmag@makc.com
Treasurer’s Report Submitted by Carolyn Broussard, Virginia Balance as of January 7, 2013 Income: Memberships Advertising Total Income
$23,091.08
45.00 425.00 $470.00
Expenses: Magazine Production (3 issues – Jan/Feb, Mar, & Apr 2,400.00 Credit Card Fees 202.88 Host Fees & Mtg Exp 67.34 Total Expenses $2,670.22 Balance as of March 31, 2013
$23,091.08
Reserve Account/Prepaid Memberships Balance as of September 30, 2012 $6,323.35 Interest Income 0.32 Balance as of December 31, 2012 $6,323.67 Summary of Income & Expense Young Koi Show 2012 Refunds/Expenses due to date change of 2012 Koi Show $-946.45 December 15, 2012 YTD Income $3,146.75 December 15, 2012 YTD Expense $-2,658.25 Net YTD Income (Expense) Not Final $ 488.50
www.makc.com May 2013
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F..A..S..T.. Ads – May Disclaimer: MAKC and its officers assume no responsibility for claims of advertisers or the quality/serviceability of goods offered.
MAKC Member Needs Your Help LOVING CATS TO GOOD HOMES . Passing of spouse forces me to find homes for both inside and outside cats. All neutered. Phone 973-390-6490 with what you are looking for and we can match you with your new best friend.
FOR SALE Remember any MAKC member can list their Koi, pond, or related items for sale here in your magazine at no charge. Please contact Ellie today if you have something for sale. BAMBOO. Winter hardy and tropical for indoors. Thinning collection. Reasonable prices. Call Ron Altman, NY 718-442-1673 (Office) or 908-658-3055 (H).
F..A..S..T.. Ads Policy & Deadlines F..A..S..T.. Ads are available FREE to MAKC members only; no commercial ads. Ads are limited to 10 items and must include name, phone number, town and state. Deadline is the 1st of each month. Help do you have an hour or two? We need a volunteer to manage this page. Please contact
Philip Gray • 516-486-5163 philiegray@mac.com
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KOI FOR SALE. Overstocked at Millbrook Pond in Haverford, PA. Contact Tom East for less than wholesale pricing on beautiful and healthy Koi. tomeast21@gmail.com or 610-937-0321. QUALITY SHOW KOI. Show quality Koi for sale. Need to thin out my pond contact philiegray@mac.com
WANTED KOI. Foster Home. Large natural pond. Happy to accept your overgrown or unwanted “children.” Call Rich Menashe in Metuchen, NJ, 732-767-0720. KOI. Wanted Healthy Pond Grade KOI over 10˝. Will pay reasonable prices. I have a 750,000 gallon pond and will adopt any unwanted KOI. Call Joseph Pollock in Virginia at 540-788-9222. KOI. Wanted for large deep natural pond next to soon to be built wine tasting room in wine country of Northern Virginia. Happy to accept any and all Koi of any size and color. Stop by and visit them next year when our tasting room opens. Call Mark Malick in Purcellville, VA, 540-270-3399 (cell). KOI BITO MAGAZINES – in good condition. Send list with asking price, or call Roger Klocke 701-491-2803, E-mail at rklockejr@aol.com. Mailing address: Roger Klocke, 4805 Meadow Creek Dr., Fargo, ND 58104. KOI STORE EMPLOYEE. Looking for a knowledgeable Koi and pond hobbyist. Part-time, competitive pay. Outstanding employee discounts! Call John at Blue Ribbon Koi Products. 703-753-7566. May 2013
MAKC CENTRAL CHAPTER VICEPRESIDENT. Schedule 4 to 12 meetings per year. This includes making sure that the meeting announcement is submitted to the magazine and the MAKC website. Plenty of advice and support are available. Your "compensation" .... knowing that you have given back to MAKC and your fellow members. Please don't wait for someone else to step forward! MAKC is a membership organization. If more than one person is interested, you can share the fun! E-mail Philip Gray at philiegray@mac.com or call 516-486-5163.
Mid-Atlantic Koi Ad Index Aquaculture Bead Filter Specialists . . . . . . . .7, 11 Aquatic Nutrition – Blackwater Gold–N . . . . . . .20 Hikari . . . . . . . . . .7, Back Cover
Long Island Fish Hospital . . .20 Matala USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Mazuri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Nisei Koi Farm . . . . . . . . . .7, 21 Pentair Aquatic
Kloubec Koi Farm . . . . . . . . .20
Eco-Systems, Inc. . . . . . . . . .15
Kodama Koi Farm . . . . . . .7, 26
Quality Koi Company . . . .7, 21
Be sure to check our club website for the most current meeting information and more. Also check the MAKC Online Sales Store. Did you know you can buy a Goldfish Guide?
Advertise in Mid-Atlantic Koi!
www.makc.com Ad Rates from $15/issue* for a business card ad to $300/issue* for a full page color ad. Reach your target audience of Koi keepers & water gardeners each month and leave your competition in the dust!! Contact Philip Gray at 516-486-5163 (leave message) or e-mail: philiegray@mac.com to request information on our advertiser packages and/or a copy of our ad rate sheet. *With an annual 10 issue contract.
May 2013
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A Picture to Share
Bee enjoying Spring blossoms. Photo shared by MAKC memeber Jeff Hahn. Have a picture to share? Send your photos to the Editor, Carolyn Weise at makcmag@makc.com. ď ś
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May 2013
MAKC Membership Application
W
e are pleased that you have inquired about membership in the Mid-Atlantic Koi Club. The club meets monthly at convenient regional locations in the Mid-Atlantic area and also publishes an informative monthly magazine (bi-monthly in Nov/Dec & Jan/Feb).
Our dues are $30 per year, per family (includes $15.00 for a one-year subscription to Mid-Atlantic Koi Online Magazine). The club year runs June 1st through May 31st of the following year. (Dues are pro-rated per month. Those who join in January or after are also asked to join for the following year.) Join for 4 years for $100 and save - $20. Overseas Membership - $40 per year. Corporate Membership $275 per year which includes advertising and other benefits. Call Barry Hixson at 610-262-5184 or e-mail: makcmembers@verizon.net for details. Please consult the following chart for the proper amount and send your check (payable to the Mid-Atlantic Koi Club) to me, Barry Hixon, 5465 Towanda Dr., Bethlehem, PA 18017. Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
$42.50
$40
$37.50
$35
$32.50
$30
$27.50
$25
$22.50
$20
$17.50
$15
As soon as I receive your check, I will send you a "Welcome to MAKC" email and a list of upcoming meetings in your area. You will also be given the date of your membership expiration. Your email will be added to our MAKC Notice Group to allow you to receive MAKC news and up-to-date information. A great source of information is our MAKC website: www.makc.com. The MAKC membership list may be made available (upon approval by the MAKC Executive Committee) for the dissemination of Koi-related information.
Welcome to MAKC! I sincerely believe you will enjoy it as much as we all do. Barry Hixson Membership Committee Mid-Atlantic Koi Club
PLEASE PRINT (You may omit any information that may be sensitive such as unlisted phone numbers or email accounts.) LAST NAME ________________________ FIRST NAME(S) _________________________ (If Applicable) CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP NAME: ______________________________________ ADDRESS ______________________________ CITY__________________ STATE _____ ZIP______ TELEPHONE ______________________ E-MAIL ________________________________ OCCUPATION(S)______________________ Do you have a pond?____ Dimensions____________ Gallons________ Type filter________________ Do you keep Koi or Goldfish?__________ Type______________ Size___________ How Many? ______ Are there any Koi related problems you need help with?_________ If so, what kind?_______________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Do you have special talents, knowledge or interest you would be willing to share with us? _________ If so, what kind? __________________________________________________________________ Would you be willing to have a Koi Club meeting at your home? _______________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________ DATE ____________ AMOUNT PAID ___________ May 2013
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