Why pond skimmers? What if the pond is going to be a natural environment where you are trying your best to simulate a real eco system? Elements like leaves and other debris are a natural part of the life of a pond. Isn't the filter enough to deal with these things?

Pond Skimmers: A Little Boost in the Natural Order

Yes, it's true that ponds in nature don't have pool cleaners with pond skimmers to clean their surface when leaves and things fall into them. Most ponds you see in nature also had a much longer time to form than the one you are going to build in your backyard. Chances are they have many more plants and fish. They may even be connected to a source of running water, like a stream or brook. Most ponds in nature are also a lot dirtier than one you will want to have in your backyard.

Just as you don't want your swimming pool to be filled with debris, neither do you want your pond. Granted, it's not like you are going to be swimming in the pond like you do a pool. The fish certainly don't care. Pond skimmers are still important though.

The simple truth of the matter is that your pond isn't going to be as equipped to deal with impurities the way a natural pond is. Filters are designed to handle small debris. Larger things like leaves will eventually clog and damage filters and pumps. Leaves can also deposit chemicals into water that can make a pond unhealthy over time. This is why you want to get that stuff out of your pond as quickly as possible.