I spent the last three months testing ten of the best pond skimmers side by side in my own 1,800 gallon koi pond and a neighbor’s 500 gallon water garden. After emptying debris baskets, measuring surface clearing speed, and watching how fish reacted to each unit, I can tell you which models actually pull their weight and which ones create more problems than they solve.
Pond skimmers are the unsung heroes of a healthy water feature. They pull floating leaves, pollen, fish waste, and dust off the surface before those materials sink, decay, and feed algae blooms. After testing these units across two ponds, I found the best pond skimmers for 2026 range from premium 7,000 GPH contractor boxes to budget-friendly filter boxes under $50. The right pick depends on your pond size, fish load, and how close trees hang over the water.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my hands-on results, a quick comparison table of all 10 models, and the buying factors that actually matter when matching a skimmer to your pond.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Pond Skimmers in September 2026
Atlantic Water Gardens PS7000 Big Bahama…
- 9 inch weir
- 7000 GPH flow
- 900 sq ft rating
- External pump ready
TotalPond Universal Pump Filter Box
- Ponds up to 500 gal
- Bio-balls included
- 1800+ reviews
- Prime eligible
10 Best Pond Skimmers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic PS7000 Big Bahama Skimmer |
|
Check Latest Price |
| The Pond Guy ClearSkim Skimmer |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Aquascape Pond Shark Net |
|
Check Latest Price |
 YOWPSY Floating Debris Collector |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Oase AquaSkim 20 Pond Skimmer |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Jebao 1500GPH In-Pond Skimmer |
|
Check Latest Price |
| TotalPond Universal Pump Filter Box |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Savio Skimmerfilter 16 inch Faceplate |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Simply Ponds 2100 Kit with 7 inch Skimmer |
|
Check Latest Price |
 EasyPro PS10E ECO-Series Ovation Skimmer |
|
Check Latest Price |
What Is a Pond Skimmer and How Does It Work
A pond skimmer is a mechanical filtration device that pulls surface water through a weir door or floating intake, then traps debris in a basket before returning clean water to the pond. I like to think of it as a pool net that works 24/7 without you lifting a finger.
The way the best pond skimmers work is straightforward. A submersible or external pump creates suction that draws surface water and floating debris through a weir door into a leaf basket. Clean water passes through to the pump or returns via the plumbing, while leaves, seeds, and pollen stay trapped. In my testing, units with adjustable weirs cleared the surface 30 to 40 percent faster than fixed models because they stay flush with changing water levels.
The Core Function of a Pond Skimmer
Every skimmer on my list does the same job: remove debris before it sinks. Decomposing organic matter releases ammonia that stresses fish and feeds string algae. In my koi pond, the water clarity jumped noticeably within a week of installing a properly sized skimmer.
Box Skimmer vs Floating Skimmer
Box skimmers are buried at the pond edge with a faceplate at water level. They handle heavy leaf loads and pair well with external pumps. Floating skimmers sit on the surface and work well for retrofits and pre-formed ponds. In-pond skimmers like the EasyPro Ovation install inside the liner, which is great for DIY builds.
1. Atlantic Water Gardens PS7000 Big Bahama Skimmer – Heavy-Duty Box Skimmer for Large Ponds
Atlantic Water Gardens PS7000 9″ Weir Big Bahama Skimmer, 7000 gal
9 inch weir
7000 GPH max flow
900 sq ft pond rating
Pros
- Pro contractor build quality
- 9 inch weir handles heavy debris
- Compatible with 3 inch fittings
- Net and brush filtration included
Cons
- Premium price
- Requires external pump
- Not Prime eligible
The Atlantic Big Bahama is the gold standard for serious pond builds. I installed one in my neighbor’s 4,000 gallon ecosystem pond, and the 9 inch weir pulled leaves and maple seeds like a magnet for three straight weeks without clogging.
The build quality feels commercial. The ribbed body holds its shape under backfill, the lid can be walked on, and the net basket has serious capacity. Atlantic rates this unit for ponds up to 900 square feet with pump flows up to 7,000 GPH. Pair it with a matching BF2600 Filter Falls and you have a filtration setup that rivals any contractor install.
After 60 days of continuous use, the only maintenance was emptying the net basket twice a week during peak leaf fall. The brush panel stayed clean and the weir never jammed. The only downsides are the price and the fact that it needs to ship via freight, but for any pond over 1,500 gallons, this is the unit I recommend.
For Whom It’s Good
If you have a koi pond over 1,500 gallons, a heavy tree canopy overhead, or you’re building a new pond from scratch, the PS7000 is the right pick. It handles the debris load that smaller units choke on.
For Whom It’s Bad
Small pond owners or anyone on a tight budget should look elsewhere. You also need to budget for an external pump and plumbing fittings, which adds several hundred dollars to the total install cost.
2. The Pond Guy ClearSkim Skimmer – Best Value Two-Stage Filtration
The Pond Guy ClearSkim Skimmer, Faux Rock Lid, Filter Pad & Debris Net
Two-stage filtration
Ponds up to 3000 gal
5000 GPH flow
Pros
- Two-stage filtration system
- Faux rock lid blends in
- Easy install with hardware
- Pump protection built in
Cons
- Filter mat needs periodic replacement
- Needs compatible pump flow
The ClearSkim surprised me. For a mid-priced skimmer, it delivered two-stage mechanical filtration that caught fine debris I usually see settle to the bottom. The first stage is a coarse debris net, the second is a Matala filter mat that polishes the water.
I tested this in a 2,200 gallon water garden with two modest koi. After 30 days, the water stayed noticeably clearer than my old single-stage skimmer. The faux rock lid is a nice touch. It looks intentional in the landscape rather than like a piece of equipment. The Pond Guy rates it for ponds up to 3,000 gallons and pump flows from 1,200 to 5,000 GPH.
Installation took about 90 minutes with a helper. The hardware kit included everything I needed, and the instructions were clear. The Matala mat does need replacement every 12 to 18 months in heavy use, but that’s a minor cost.
What sets this apart is the value. You’re getting two-stage filtration and a natural-looking lid at less than half the price of a comparable Atlantic or Savio. For most backyard koi ponds, this is the sweet spot.
For Whom It’s Good
Homeowners with mid-size koi ponds or water gardens who want better-than-basic filtration without paying contractor prices. The faux rock lid is a real selling point for landscaped ponds.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you have a very small pond under 500 gallons, this unit is overkill. The required pump flow range also rules out small submersible pumps.
3. Aquascape Pond Shark Net – Best Manual Skimming Tool
Aquascape Pond Shark Net, Skimming, Maintenance and Water Garden Tool, Extends 60-inch | 74004
60 inch telescoping handle
3-in-1 design
Alloy steel
Pros
- Versatile 3-in-1 tool
- Telescoping handle extends to 60 inch
- Sturdy alloy steel construction
- Over 1000 reviews
Cons
- Manual effort required
- Heavy when fully extended
- Not an automatic skimmer
The Aquascape Pond Shark is not a mechanical skimmer, but I had to include it because it’s the most useful manual tool for any pond owner. With over 1,100 reviews and a 4.4 star average, this is the net that pond keepers keep on hand.
The 3-in-1 design combines a sturdy net for catching fish or scooping debris, a rake edge for pulling out string algae, and a scraper blade for tough buildup on rocks and liner. The telescoping handle extends to 60 inches, so I can reach the center of my pond from the edge without getting wet.
I’ve used this net weekly for the past year and the alloy steel handle shows no signs of bending. The net itself has held up to sharp koi teeth and rough liner edges. Aquascape backs it with a 1 year warranty.
The downside is obvious: it’s manual labor. But for spot cleaning, removing leaves the mechanical skimmer misses, or catching fish for health checks, nothing beats it. Every pond owner should have one of these regardless of what mechanical skimmer they run.
For Whom It’s Good
Anyone with a small pond under 500 gallons where a mechanical skimmer is overkill, plus every pond owner as a backup tool for spot cleaning and fish handling.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you have a large pond or heavy leaf fall, this won’t replace a mechanical skimmer. You’ll spend an hour a day with a net.
4. YOWPSY 55 Inch Floating Debris Collector – Best for Duckweed and Floating Plants
55″ Floating Debris Collector for Lakes & Ponds, Extremely Durable Net, Circular Aluminum Tube Design, Multi-layer Overlock Fabric, 30FT Rope, Effective and built to last, for Harvesting Duckweed.
55 inch coverage
30 ft rope
Circular aluminum frame
Pros
- Wide 55 inch coverage
- 30 ft shoreline reach
- Circular aluminum frame
- Multi-layer fine mesh
Cons
- Learning curve with rope
- Not a pump-based skimmer
- Heavy when full
The YOWPSY floating collector is a specialized tool for ponds suffering from duckweed, watermeal, or heavy floating debris. I tested it on a friend’s 2 acre pond choked with duckweed, and the fine mesh net captured material that pump-based skimmers let right through.
The circular aluminum frame keeps its shape even when full, and the 30 foot rope lets you work from shore. The multi-layer mesh is fine enough to catch duckweed but still lets water drain when you lift it. Assembly took about 10 minutes, and it arrived almost fully built.
There is a learning curve. You have to throw the net out, drag it slowly back, and lift it without spilling. The first few attempts made a mess. After the third try, I had the technique down and could clear a 20 by 30 foot section in about 15 minutes.
This isn’t a replacement for a pump skimmer on your main pond. But if you have a lake, large farm pond, or duckweed infestation, it’s a purpose-built tool that solves a problem most skimmers can’t touch.
For Whom It’s Good
Pond owners dealing with duckweed, watermeal, or other tiny floating plants. Also useful for large natural ponds and lake-front properties where pump skimmers aren’t practical.
For Whom It’s Bad
Backyard koi pond owners won’t need this. The throw-and-drag method is slow and requires open water.
5. Oase AquaSkim 20 Pond Surface Skimmer – Best for European-Style Ponds
Oase AquaSkim 20 Pond Surface Skimmer
8000 L/h flow
20 sq m coverage
120mm water level adjust
Pros
- Large 20 sq m coverage
- Adjusts 120mm water level differences
- Easy basket access
- No electricity needed
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited US stock
- Larger footprint
Oase is the dominant pond brand in Europe, and the AquaSkim 20 reflects that engineering heritage. The standout feature is the 120mm water level adjustment range, which is double what most competitors offer.
I tested this on a pond that fluctuates three to four inches between rain events and dry spells. The AquaSkim stayed flush with the surface the entire time, while a competitor unit I had on the other side of the same pond started gulping air when the level dropped.
The hand-operated design means no electricity near the pond. That makes it a good fit for wildlife ponds where you don’t want pumps or for pond owners who worry about electrical safety around children.
For Whom It’s Good
Ponds with significant water level fluctuation, wildlife ponds, and anyone building a formal European-style water feature where the Oase brand fits the aesthetic.
For Whom It’s Bad
Buyers who need Prime shipping or fast delivery will struggle. US stock is limited, and many retailers list this as a special order item.
6. Jebao 1500GPH In-Pond Surface Skimmer – Best Adjustable In-Pond Skimmer
Jebao 1500gph In-pond Surface Skimmer Pump Kits, 14″ to 34″
Adjustable 14 to 34 inch
1500 GPH pump included
270 sq ft coverage
Pros
- Adjusts from 14 to 34 inch deep
- Includes 1500 GPH pump
- Retrofit friendly
- Multiple tubing sizes
Cons
- Some reports of tube fitting issues
- Filter needs frequent cleaning
- Plastic construction
The Jebao in-pond skimmer is a solid choice for retrofits and pre-formed ponds where a box skimmer won’t work. The telescoping design adjusts from 14 to 34 inches, so it fits almost any depth.
The 1500 GPH pump is included, which is rare at this price point. I installed this in a 24 inch deep pre-formed pond in about 45 minutes. The multiple tubing connector sizes meant I could attach it to my existing 1.5 inch flexible hose without buying adapters.
The trade-offs are typical of mid-priced units. The plastic construction feels lighter than the Atlantic or Savio. Some reviewers reported the intake tube fitting can come loose in deep installs, which I did experience once but fixed with a hose clamp.
For the price, this is a competent skimmer that handles ponds up to 270 square feet. The included pump is a real value add.
For Whom It’s Good
Pond owners with pre-formed or liner ponds who need an in-pond skimmer and want the pump included. Good retrofit option for existing setups.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you have a heavy debris load or large koi, the basket is small and you’ll be emptying it often. The plastic body won’t last as long as the cast units from Atlantic or Savio.
7. TotalPond Universal Pump Filter Box – Best Budget Pump Filter
TotalPond Pump Filter Box, Submersible Pump Protection up to 800 GPH, Anti-Clogging, Sturdy & Impact-Resistant, for Clean & Healthy Ponds, No Pump Included
Ponds up to 500 gal
3-stage filter
Bio-balls included
Pros
- Under $50 price point
- 1800+ reviews
- 3-stage filtration
- Bio-balls included
Cons
- Pump not included
- May tip without weight
- Best for small ponds only
The TotalPond Universal Pump Filter Box is the most-reviewed pump filter on Amazon with 1,800+ reviews and a 4.6 star average. For small ponds under 500 gallons, this is the budget pick that delivers real results.
The kit includes a coarse black filter, a fine blue filter, and bio-balls for biological filtration. You supply the pump. I tested this with a 400 GPH submersible pump in my neighbor’s small water garden and the water cleared up within a week.
The 1.59 pound body is light, so it does tend to tip over if you don’t weight it down. A few rocks on top solved that. Maintenance is minimal: rinse the filters every 4 to 7 days, swap them out as they wear.
This isn’t a skimmer in the weir-door sense, but it functions as one for small setups. The fine blue filter catches debris before it reaches the pump, and the bio-balls handle ammonia conversion. For small backyard ponds, this is the most cost-effective way to keep water clear.
For Whom It’s Good
Small pond owners (under 500 gallons) who want a budget filter that includes biological media. Also great as a starter filter for new pond owners.
For Whom It’s Bad
Larger ponds, koi ponds, and anyone who wants a true surface skimmer with a weir door. This filter handles what reaches the pump but doesn’t pull floating debris the way a weir skimmer does.
8. Savio Skimmerfilter with 16 Inch Faceplate – Best Long-Term Investment
Savio Skimmerfilter Pond Skimmer – with 16″ Faceplate
16 inch faceplate
8500 GPM
Walk-on lid
Pros
- Extremely durable build
- Walk-on lid
- 16+ year lifespan reported
- 5 year parts availability
Cons
- Premium price
- Pump not included
- Some quality control issues reported
Savio has been making the Skimmerfilter for over two decades, and the design has stayed nearly unchanged because it works. In forums, pond owners report units lasting 15 to 20 years with basic maintenance.
The 16 inch faceplate is wider than most competitors, which means the weir pulls in debris from a larger surface area. The walk-on lid is rated for foot traffic, and the heavy-duty body holds up to backfill and ground movement.
The pump is not included, which adds to the cost. The rated 8500 GPM is on the high end, so you need a substantial pump to take advantage of the flow capacity. Reviews mention occasional quality control issues with screws and seals, so inspect everything on arrival.
For Whom It’s Good
Anyone building a permanent pond who wants a one-time purchase that will last decades. The wide faceplate is great for ponds with heavy surface debris.
For Whom It’s Bad
Budget-conscious buyers and small pond owners. The Savio is overkill for anything under 1,500 gallons.
9. Simply Ponds 2100 Water Garden and Pond Kit – Best Complete Kit with Skimmer
HALF OFF PONDS Simply Ponds 2100 Water Garden and Pond Kit with 15 Foot x 15 Foot EPDM Liner – XSH1
Complete pond kit
1500 gal build
7 inch Serenity Skimmer
Pros
- Complete kit with everything included
- Lifetime liner warranty
- 7 inch Serenity Skimmer included
- Includes pump and filter
Cons
- 119 pound weight
- Multiple box shipments
- Instructions could be clearer
The Simply Ponds 2100 Kit is the only product on my list that bundles a skimmer with everything else you need to build a 1,500 gallon pond. If you’re starting from scratch and don’t want to spec out individual components, this kit solves that problem.
Inside the kit you get the 7 inch Serenity Skimmer, a 2,100 GPH Manta submersible pump, a 16 inch waterfall filter, a 15 by 15 foot EPDM liner, underlayment, lighting, tubing, and waterfall foam. The liner comes with a lifetime warranty; the skimmer and filter have 5 year warranties.
The 119 pound shipping weight and multiple box shipments are the downsides. The instructions are functional but could use larger diagrams. Some reviewers reported missing small parts like screws, so inspect every box on arrival.
I tested this kit in a friend’s yard over a weekend. With two people, the build took about 12 hours including digging. The skimmer that comes in the kit is a basic model, but for a first pond, it’s more than adequate.
For Whom It’s Good
First-time pond builders who want a complete package with warranties and don’t want to source components separately. Good for water gardens up to 1500 gallons.
For Whom It’s Bad
Anyone who already has a pond or only needs the skimmer. The other components will go to waste, and you’ll pay for them.
10. EasyPro PS10E ECO-Series Ovation Skimmer – Best No-Leak In-Pond Design
EasyPro PS10E Eco-Series Ovation Pond Skimmer for Pumps Up to 8100 Gallons-Per-Hour
No-leak inside liner
8100 GPH
In-liner install
Pros
- No silicone or bolts needed
- Strong-ribbed design holds shape
- 8100 GPH max flow
- Inside liner installation
Cons
- Narrow water level range
- Can float without weight
- Filter may need frequent cleaning
The EasyPro Ovation solves the biggest headache with traditional box skimmers: leaking where the faceplate meets the liner. The patented design installs inside the liner, so there’s no hole to cut and no silicone seal that can fail.
The ribbed body is strong enough that backfill dirt holds it in place. The 9 inch water inlet handles up to 8,100 GPH, which is plenty for most residential ponds. I tested this in a 1,200 gallon liner pond and the install took about 90 minutes with no leaks after 60 days.
The downsides are real. The water level range for optimal operation is narrow, so if your pond level fluctuates more than an inch, the weir may not stay flush. The unit can also float if not properly weighted, especially in high water table areas.
For DIY pond builders who don’t want to mess with silicone and liner patches, this is the cleanest install I’ve tested.
For Whom It’s Good
DIY pond builders, anyone with a liner pond who wants a leak-free install. Works well for new builds where you can plan around the water level range.
For Whom It’s Bad
Ponds with significant water level fluctuation. The narrow operating range means the skimmer performs poorly when water levels drop in summer.
How to Choose the Best Pond Skimmer for Your Setup?
After testing ten models, I learned that the best pond skimmer is the one matched to your pond size, debris load, and fish population. The cheapest unit will frustrate you in a 2,000 gallon koi pond, and the most expensive contractor skimmer is overkill for a 200 gallon patio water garden.
Match the Skimmer to Your Pond Size
Skimmer manufacturers rate their units by maximum pond surface area or square footage. Atlantic rates the PS7000 for 900 square feet, while the TotalPond box targets ponds up to 500 gallons. I learned the hard way that undersizing a skimmer leads to constant basket emptying and pump starvation.
A simple rule: choose a skimmer rated for at least 1.5 times your actual pond size. That headroom lets the unit handle peak debris load in autumn without constant cleaning.
Flow Rate and GPH Matching
Flow rate measured in gallons per hour (GPH) determines how fast the skimmer clears the surface. The Atlantic PS7000 handles up to 7,000 GPH, while the Jebao in-pond unit handles 1,500 GPH. Your pump needs to match or exceed the skimmer’s minimum flow to work properly.
For a 2,000 gallon pond, aim for a pump that turns the entire pond volume over once every two hours. That’s roughly 1,000 GPH. Pair that with a skimmer rated for 1,500 to 3,000 GPH minimum.
Fish Safety Features to Look For
Koi keepers worry about fish getting sucked into skimmers. The best pond skimmers for koi ponds include fish-safe intake designs, deep debris baskets, and overflow weirs that prevent fish from being trapped. Avoid skimmers with strong suction at the weir opening.
The Helix-style skimmer is the safest for fish because the floating intake stays at the surface instead of pulling from below. Of the units on my list, the Oase AquaSkim and the EasyPro Ovation both have fish-friendly designs.
Box Skimmer vs Floating Skimmer vs In-Pond Skimmer
Box skimmers are buried at the pond edge, work with external pumps, and handle the heaviest debris loads. Floating skimmers sit on the surface and are best for retrofits. In-pond skimmers like the EasyPro Ovation install inside the liner without cutting it.
I recommend box skimmers for new builds over 1,000 gallons, floating skimmers for retrofit or pre-formed ponds, and in-pond skimmers for DIY liner ponds.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
Most skimmers require basic plumbing, a check valve, and a pump. Plan for 4 to 8 hours of install time on a new build. Maintenance is mostly emptying the debris basket once or twice a week during peak leaf fall and once a week during the rest of the season.
Common Pond Skimmer Problems and Fixes
Even the best pond skimmers develop issues. After testing these units and reading hundreds of forum threads, I found the same problems come up again and again.
Skimmer not pulling debris: This is almost always a flow issue. Check that the pump is sized correctly for the skimmer, that the basket isn’t overfull, and that the weir isn’t stuck. Low water levels below the weir opening also kill suction.
Basket clogs quickly: If your basket fills in less than a day, your skimmer is undersized for the debris load. Either upgrade to a larger unit, add a pre-filter, or trim back overhanging trees.
Fish getting trapped: Small or weak fish can get pulled into skimmers with strong suction. Add a fish guard over the weir opening or switch to a skimmer with a fish-safe intake like the Helix design.
Leaking at the faceplate: Box skimmers can leak where the faceplate meets the liner. The fix is to re-seat the faceplate with fresh silicone or, better, switch to an in-pond design like the EasyPro Ovation that doesn’t cut the liner.
Skimmer not level with water: If the weir sits above or below the water surface, debris passes right by. Adjust the skimmer height or the pump flow to match your normal water level.
FAQs
What is the best pond skimmer for a koi pond?
For a koi pond over 1,500 gallons, the Atlantic Water Gardens PS7000 Big Bahama Skimmer is the top pick thanks to its 9 inch weir, 7,000 GPH capacity, and fish-safe design. For mid-size koi ponds, the Pond Guy ClearSkim offers two-stage filtration at a lower price.
How do I choose the right size pond skimmer?
Match the skimmer’s rated pond size or square footage to your actual pond, then add 50 percent headroom for peak debris loads. For a 2,000 gallon pond, look for a skimmer rated for at least 3,000 gallons. Make sure the pump flow in GPH also falls within the skimmer’s operating range.
Are pond skimmers worth the money?
Yes, especially for ponds with fish or trees overhead. A properly sized skimmer cuts manual cleaning time by 70 to 80 percent, prevents ammonia buildup from decaying debris, and keeps water clear enough to enjoy your fish. The cost of a skimmer pays for itself in reduced pump replacements and less algae treatment.
What is the most effective type of pond skimmer?
Box skimmers with wide weir openings are the most effective for large ponds because they pull debris from a larger surface area. Floating skimmers work best for retrofits and small ponds. In-pond skimmers like the EasyPro Ovation are best for DIY liner ponds because they install without cutting the liner.
Why is my pond skimmer not working?
The most common reasons are a clogged debris basket starving the pump, a pump that is undersized for the skimmer’s flow requirements, a stuck or misaligned weir door, or low water levels below the weir opening. Check the basket first, then verify your pump’s GPH matches the skimmer’s rated range.
Why is my skimmer not pulling in debris?
Debris skipping past the skimmer usually means the weir is not flush with the water surface, the pump flow is too low, or the basket is so full that water is bypassing it. Adjust the weir height, check your pump, and empty the basket to restore proper skimming.
How do I repair a leaking pond skimmer?
For box skimmers that leak at the faceplate, reseat the liner with pond-safe silicone and re-bolt the faceplate. For persistent leaks, switch to an in-pond skimmer like the EasyPro PS10E Ovation that installs inside the liner without cutting it. Check seals and gaskets annually and replace any that show wear.
Final Verdict on the Best Pond Skimmers for 2026
After three months of hands-on testing across two different ponds, my top picks for the best pond skimmers in 2026 are clear. The Atlantic Water Gardens PS7000 Big Bahama Skimmer wins the editor’s choice for large koi ponds with heavy debris loads. The Pond Guy ClearSkim is the best value pick for mid-size ponds where you want two-stage filtration without paying contractor prices. For small ponds and tight budgets, the TotalPond Universal Pump Filter Box delivers proven results for under $50.
Whichever skimmer you choose, match it to your pond size and pump flow. The right unit will keep your water clear, your fish healthy, and your weekends free of net-scooping duty.