Planning And Designing Your Pond
So, you want to build a pond…
Where do we begin? First, let’s figure out what you are envisioning. Is it small? Is it big? Do we want a koi pond, a water garden, or something with both a mix of fish and plants? Do you want a waterfall, a stream, or both? What about landscaping or hardscaping around it? Do you want a bridge, gazebo, or patio with a sitting area next to the pond? These are all questions to think about before you start to build your pond.
Once you have an idea of what you want to create you will need to figure out where to build it. Look around your yard, and try to visualize what you’re thinking about. Where can I build it? I can suggest to build your pond in an area where you can see and enjoy it from areas of your home where you spend a lot of time. Perhaps off of a patio, or a nice area of the yard in view from several windows. You will be creating a focal point in your yard, an area that will be an attraction to everyone who comes into your backyard.
When you decide on a location, make sure that you have room to create an environment around it, with landscaping, or hardscaping. At the very least, maybe a bench or a couple of chairs to sit and enjoy your pond in. If you plan on having a bridge, patio, or something like that, be sure to design the pond to accommodate it. Another bit of advice, if you want a bridge, have a destination when you walk over it. Maybe it can lead to a patio, sitting area, or even just out to your yard. But often I see ponds that have a bridge that leads to nowhere. You do not want to walk over a bridge and hit a fence, or be in the middle of bushes. Just my opinion…
Now, let’s think about what kind of filtration system you may be using. External equipment can take up space, and be very visible. You must not overlook the importance of a good filter system. Think about where to put it. It must be easily accessible for you, and somewhat close to your pond. Yet, hidden, if possible, and out of sight. You may also want to run an electric line out to the pond for the pump, UV light, air system, lights, etc. If possible, a water line is really nice to have there as well.
After figuring out what we want to build, and where to build it, my advice is to use a rope to lay out on the ground and determine the size and shape of the pond. Don’t use paint, not yet! Use the rope, as your size and shape will probably change several times before you’re happy with the design. If you use paint, you’ll have lines all over the ground, and it gets confusing to see the right shape. a rope it simple, easy to move, and clear to see. Once you are happy with the size and shape, you can then paint it.
Keep in mind, that while digging out your pond, you may have a lot of dirt. Think about how you will use it, or move it. You can use it to build up a waterfall, or build a landscape berm later. You will always have more dirt than you think!
This pond is the result of the plan above. It came out pretty good! The picture on the top of the page shows this pond with a rope outlining the shape, and a machine waiting to start digging.
