When given the choice of underwater of land hibernation, my aquatic turtles have always chosen water. I did have one Wood turtle, much more terrestrial than most water turtles, hibernate in a mulch pit one year. Frankly, I'd be worried all winter long if I hibernated my water turtles on dry land. That's just me. As long as your pond goes below the frost line, I'd stick to aquatic hibernation for aquatic turtles. That's just my opinion. Though, I have found painted turtles waking from hibernation in "not totally wet" marshy meadows in Southern NJ while attempting to photograph Spotted and Bog turtles.
As far as the pond fence...I consider it a necessity. I choose function over form - 3/4" hardware cloth on a wooden frame. I had a buddy who made a beautiful setup with landscaping timber. Just make sure that you build a substantial lip on the top...turtles can be amazing climbers. Good luck.

[ Show Entire Thread ]