Pond clear-out

[BooseysMom]

I have just cleared out our small pond and am shocked at how much was in it. But I'm worried that now I've cleared it out, I heve literally nothing left! I did have some frogs but unless they're excellent at getting out of the way, they've moved out. What came out was a thick heavy blanket of soil and roots from a vigorously growing water shamrock which had enveloped the whole liner. Should I have left this intact? The water is brown and smelly now that's all out.
Grateful for any help anyone can give.(photos attached)

Drain as much of the stagnant water as you can, and fill with fresh clean water. Most aquarium/pond type stores have stuff for treating the water to make it better for fish and wildlife, so you could look into that as well. Maybe get rid of the water shamrock and replace with something less invasive.

ThreePears Thank you, that's v. helpful. The only sign of life in there was one water beetle! The drought really didn't help as all my marginals died, even with regular watering. It was meant to be a bog garden but it failed miserably!