Discover the Winter Wonderland: EMU’s University Park Pond – A Cozy Habitat for Koi All Year Round!

By summer’s end, when most students have headed home, a group of vibrant koi fish glides gracefully through the ponds near Eastern Michigan University’s Student Center. These striking fish find shelter in the deeper parts of the water during winter, swimming beneath the ice that often blankets the pond.

### Who Looks After the Koi?

Christopher Grant manages the Physical Plant Department at EMU. He shared, “They really are quite low-maintenance. They take care of themselves.” Visitors often toss bread to the koi, which is perfectly fine. When food is scarce, they scavenge for insects and other small bits on the pond’s bottom.

The staff keeps an eye on the pond’s fountain pump and adds water when necessary. Overall, this small ecosystem continues to thrive naturally, earning its spot as one of the most peaceful areas on campus.

### A Relaxing Oasis

The koi pond is more than just home to fish; it’s a calming retreat for students amid their hectic schedules. According to the EMU Recreation/Intramural Sports Department, these ponds are designed to provide a serene environment for both students and the community.

The main koi pond sits beside the Recreation Center, while another pond in front of the Student Center uses runoff water and isn’t suitable for fish. Birds, including the occasional blue heron, also visit, adding to the lively atmosphere.

### The Koi’s Journey at EMU

The koi have been part of the EMU landscape since at least the 1990s, thanks in large part to Robert “Bob” England, a former director of the Recreation Center. He is believed to have stocked the pond with fish, including koi. This pond was part of a project aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation spaces on campus.

Interestingly, Jeff Kuhns, a former EMU employee, helped maintain the koi population. He raised them in his own backyard pond and would transport them to EMU as needed, ensuring their longevity.

Current estimates suggest about 20 to 25 koi reside in the pond today, swimming freely and comfortably.

### Seasons Change, Koi Stay

The depth of the pond reaches nearly eight feet. In summer, the koi swim beneath the lively fountain, surrounded by lush greenery. In contrast, winter brings ice, with some areas freezing solid while others remain deep enough for the koi to thrive. They often stay near the bottom where the water stays warmer.

Grant mentioned a bridge in the pond that provides perfect shelter for the koi, no matter the season.

### Interesting Koi Facts

– Koi are domesticated and primarily ornamental, thriving in both freshwater and brackish waters.
– They can grow to be one to two feet long and come in various colors, including orange, silver, and black.
– Although they are popular, koi are not native to Michigan; they originally hail from Russia and East Asia, especially Japan.
– Koi can become invasive. However, since the campus pond is enclosed, the koi don’t threaten local ecosystems.

### Pond Guidelines

Around the pond, multiple signs prohibit activities like swimming, fishing, and ice skating. The no-fishing signs were added after several reports of parents and children trying to catch the koi.

Grant urges everyone to appreciate the koi from afar, saying, “I just hope people let them be and simply enjoy watching them.”

This peaceful pond, then, stands as a reminder of balance in nature—a space for both students and fish to coexist and find serenity.



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