Chapter 1 

One of the first things to be determined is where do you intend to enjoy the water garden from the most. Would it possible be a new patio next to the pond, a raised deck or even inside the house? 

A position close to the house could be ideal.  Check the views you would have from key rooms inside the house for both the pond and the waterfalls.  Also consider the natural terrain of your outdoor space to provide desirable elevation changes in the water feature.  Many times homeowners get excited about having a waterfall on a hillside, only to realize that the hill is facing away from their view that would not allow them to get the type of enjoyment they anticipate. 

A water feature often times is an addition to an existing landscape or garden.  So this type of design and stone selection may be somewhat predetermined.  Underground utilities may also dictate areas that can be excavated. 

Most of the time 110-volt power and a 15 amp Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter are all that is needed for both the pump and lights.  It would be wise to check local codes and us a qualified electrician as required.  Additional water availability may be an option as well for washing filter parts and supplying auto fill. 

Next to be considered are pond design issues.

-  Formal or Informal

-  Garden Pond and/or Koi-Pond

-  Bigger is Easier

   - Lower maintenance per square foot

   - Greater stability of ecosystem

-  Berm size and location 

Design considerations are in order so that an economical, low maintenance long-life waterscape can be built.  The elements listed above must be evaluated in order to proceed with building your pond system. Formal or informal design must be discussed to determine whether there will be a fish culture as your primary desire vs. how the pond will be used. 

Many people feel that a small pond will be easier to maintain. In all reality, a larger pond is actually more stable ecologically and will usually provide a better appearance. This could save you regrets later wishing you had started bigger. 

A waterfall system is enjoyed overall by most people.  And to achieve this effect, a two-pond system is needed.  Always build your second pond bigger that the first pond is usual saying. 

Here is something to think about: Any pond under 1.000 gallons should turn water over at least twice an hour, and in fact a waterfall will do it.  And any pond over 1.000 gallons up to 5,000 - 6,000 gallons should turn over at least once per hour.  Ponder over 5,000- 6,000 gallons can be turned over every two hours.  Actually water over five or six thousand gallons, is usually more stable. This number of items to turn your water over is not standard in the industry, but seems to be most expected.