thats a bummer but half is better than nothing i guess. i hope it works out for you.

Sorry, not to start a debate here but I dont think theres an issue, salt vs fresh im finding it easier to grow algae in salt then in fresh. If you keep up on your water changes, keep filters clean, and if still a problem have some phosphate material i wouldnt see a problem. Id watch temps more then anything, maybe run them higher off the water then on the salt. Watch using insurance. Ive talked to my insurance people and Ive pretty much decided to just go for it cause they said if there was anything they would do it once and after that the premiums would skyrocket.

50% of somthing is better then 100% of nothing... that really suck what did they do to it?

Wow!!! you must have a high deductable.

I am sure we all could help you out. I myself could probably help with resetup, and would be able to give you a couple frags or so.

Setting up a fresh water sump is fairly easy. Just be smart about your space. use a pre filter or sock as you would normally.Then use a sheet of plastic at the top with smaller holes drilled in it so the water will trickle through whatever you use as a bio media. preferably something porous like bio balls (which are expensive) or i have seen lots of guys use hair curlers or cut up sponges. Plants in a freshwater sump have some advantages but are definitely not necessary. I have been running freshwater sumps for years and have never used plants.
And also don't worry about your MH's for fresh, just mind your fish's preference as lots of fresh livestock prefer low to medium lighting