FARMINGTON – Franklin County Soil and Water Conservation District is taking orders for brook trout to be delivered during the annual May shrub sale pick-up. Those who order trout for a pond before March 15, 2009, will receive a 10 percent discount. Gift certificates are also available.

Trout can be enjoyed year round, and many people stock their ponds for enjoyment and to watch the fish jump when they are fed.

As an added bonus this year, the district will offer an algae control, water clarifier, “Clear Pond.” It is not a pesticide or algae killer. It feeds on nutrients in water, which reduces phosphorus levels. This starves the algae. The bacteria do not winter over, so it needs to be added every year.

Fresh fish food may be offered by the district. Fish food loses its nutrient value when stored on the shelf for more than 90 days. The food is used by hatcheries with success.

The district will also be offering rainbows this year. However, new federal laws affecting salmon spawning tributaries will affect permit renewals.

The district is also taking orders for shrubs, compost bins and rain barrels. It also still has topo maps for most of the state.

For information about any of the programs or to purchase a gift certificate, drop by the district at 107 Park St., Farmington, ME 04938, call 778-4279, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.franklincswcd.org.