BTW I get absolutely everything for the pond on Amazon now. From food to chemicals to landscape lights to pumps, it's MORE than half the price or less from my nursery.
Also I'm trying something new for the Blue Heron, a mirror ball that floats around the pond on the current from the waterfall. The reflection is supposed to scare them off. I'll let you know how it works.
As far as freezing, my pond guy says we get 7-18 inches depending on the year. But since my pond is old and built out of concrete he recommended I use a De-Icer so it doesn't crack the bottom. It also gives a place for my birdies to drink in the winter. Got a cheap 1,500 watt one on Amazon.
wait
those fish freeze in the winter? you have to buy new fish every year?