Is it ok to fill a newly built koi pond with irrigation ditch water that comes from a river?

Question

Would doing that be better than using chlorinated city water? I have koi in another smaller pond and will transfer them over along with all the water that is in that pond.

Answer 1

I would think that the river water would be ideal.  Extra clean city water (even dechlorinated) is really too clean--fish appreciate a certain amount of bacteria, small plants and other organisms.  It would be like having an established pond.  You may end up with some snails, etc.  Anything that grows up to become visible with the naked eye will simply be extra fish food.

Answer 2

FIlter the tap water and DO NOT USE DITCH WATER unless you want your Koi floating belly up in it!

Answer 3

A better idea would be to fill the new pond with the city water a few days before you transfer the fish.  The chlorine will evaporate, leaving fresh water.  The river water may have runoff that contains chemicals.  Not really a good idea.

Answer 4

Intriguing idea, but you will have no control of what comes in. Are you willing to experiment for a time and check for losses?