CONSTRUCTION OF PONDS. 37 



banks together, the first green tree in spring, and 

 the last to shed its leaves in autumn, it is pecul- 

 iarly adapted for the shading of fish ponds. 

 The building and proper setting of the sluice-ways 

 require much care. We are sorry to see that 

 several new, and otherwise well-appointed estab- 

 lishments have adopted a species of concealed 

 gate, a large portion of which is totally inaccess- 

 ible unless the water be entirely drawn off from the 

 pond. An open gate, to every part of which free 

 access can be had at all times, is the only one which 

 should find a place at the ponds of a* practical 

 fish-farmer. The best wood for their construction 

 is well- seasoned chestnut. The frame should be of 

 2x2 lumber, mortised and tenoned. Every nail 

 should be dipped in oil before being driven, and 

 two thick coats of paint applied to the whole 

 woodwork and allowed to become thoroughly dry 

 before the sluice-gate is placed in position. It is 

 well if the boards are plowed and grooved, but 

 this is not absolutely necessary. In setting in po- 

 sition, level the ground accurately, place the gate 

 perfectly level, and behind, place across the bed of 

 the stream a frame of scantling upon which nail 

 boards, forming a sheeting, reaching from the gate 

 about three feet up stream. On this build the 

 wings, extending at an angle of about 45 to the 

 end of the sheeting. At the front edge of the gate 



