Hi and thanks for the concern. I can understand what catherine meant. As a child I've waded through all kinds of ponds, I did get itchy which is largely due to the organic plant matters that sank to the bottom of the pond. Got a rash but no harm done. However if this was a a naturalized pond with contaminated water - well that's going to be a concern. However I very much doubt this well contained area will harbour such nasties. It will be fine. I do by the way own a large and well planted aquarium. Haven't had a problem.

Vickster, your lilies should be okay left on the shelf, if they are too heavy and awkward to sink to the bottom of your pond. As long as they are not tropicals and the water covers them all winter they will survive. I winter hardy lilies,without a problem, stored in a kiddie pool that is only 9" deep and it freezes solid. As for the rest of your questions, checkout the link below to another post on this forum similar to yours. "Horton" Here is a link that might be useful: Winterising information

I highly recommend American Lotus (Nelumbo lutea) which would do well in the shallower areas of your pond. At the pond edge I would recommend various native irises. Some that are native to your region include Iris tridentata (a totally awesome and completely under utilized iris that is one of the latest of all iris species to bloom in the summer), Iris virginica, and any/all of the Louisiana species such as Iris fulva, Iris hexagona, and Iris giganticaerulea. If you buy seeds, bear in mind most of these will take 2-3 years to bloom. (At least that the case for me in Ohio.) Here is a link that might be useful: Native Iris Species Website

I would be very interested in these plants, unfortunately, I have very little to offer in exchange. I plan to collect seeds of Gaillardia Echinacea Purpurea Aclepias incarnata as soon as they are ripe. I'm hesitant to offer, because I'm not sure how to package them, or how to guarantee their quality (I've never traded before). If all that doesn't sound too ridiculous :-), perhaps you could email me?