I wonder if the big box stores' carrying pond supplies means there is a trend among buyers to have more ponds. That would be great, if more and more people are catching on to the hobby.
If not, those stores who invest in something that won't be sold are taking a gamble. Also, if they carry crummy stock, and people get stung or disappointed by a purchase, they won't go back, and will continue to patronize the pond specialty stores.
I do wonder about the number of people into ponding. Here in Houston, the pond tour is fabulously successful, with lots and lots of people attending. But the Houston Pond Society has realtively few paid members. Does that show a lack of interest? Interest, but a lack of time to be involved? Is the $50 membership fee too high? Or do people with ponds not feel a need to belong to any club or society?
Just musing here.
Either way, even though I'd be glad to buy plants and etc. at HD or Lowe's, I have more trust in the quality of what I get from the pond store - even though it IS a 30 mile drive away, and higher prices, etc - but I like the idea of supporting a mom & pop specialty store. And it's a particularly well done store, too.