Hi all...I'm new to float planes--so much so that I don't actually have one yet. I normally fly over farmland, etc, but we have a pond and I'd love to take advantage of it (always level + omnidirectional T/O and landings!).

Anyway, one serious concern I have is whether the exhaust will dump a small oil slick onto the surface of the pond. Nitro engines do put a lot of oily smoke out, and I would think even a smallish amount put into the water could be a bit messy....If that were the case, I think I'd prefer to avoid the seaplane idea altogether .

Any thoughts/ experiences that might shed light on this concern?

Also, how much distance do planes like a Seamaster need to T/O and land on water?

Many thanks in advance...