Your complete pond-building checklist When you’re building a pond, there’s a lot to consider - but even more to get excited and creative with. This guide gives you a jumping-off point, covering everything you need to turn the pond of your dreams into a reality.
1. Style and purpose Choose what kind of pond you want. For instance: • Koi pond - dedicated to Ornamnetal Japanese Koi (nishikigoi) • Goldfish (or mixed fish) pond - with some planings • Garden pond - mostly plantings, like waterlilies and lotus • Formal pond - no fish or plantings • Natural swimming pond - for bathing
2. Location Where are you placing your pond? Keep in mind: • Offsets – distance from buildings and property lines, check local codes • Buried utilities – call 811 to mark out power, gas, cable, phone lines • Irrigation system – relocate as needed, provide fill line for topping off • Power source – GFCI protected, close for direct connection, no extensions • Access – how to bring in materials, machines and remove excess soil • Security – to ensure safety and deny entry to predators like herons • Sun vs. Shade – 4-6 hours of early sun with afternoon shade best • Wind – windy sites collect more debris, cool down (and heat) faster • Esthetics and mood of your space
3. Size, shape, and depth Consider the size and shape of your pond: • Round, rectangular, organic curved shape, or something else? • Dug into existing grade or set above ground level? • Width and length • Depth – overwintering fish requires depth below local ice/freeze line • Stream, if any - will need proper space allocated • Waterfalls, if any – determine the look desired