Tips In Starting Outdoor Fish Pond

  1. Consider the following before starting construction: Where will the pond go? You don't want to locate it under trees where you'll have leaves constantly falling in it, and worse, clogging the filter.
  2. Make sure power and water sources are available.
  3. Don't position your pond where it will be exposed to flooding. Be sure the area you choose is level and the soil has good drainage.
  4. Keep in mind where tree roots will be in respect to your pond.
  5. Know how big you want it to be. The smaller the pond, the more the outside temperature and weather conditions will affect it. Take advantage of the sun as much as possible to keep the pond warm. A stable pond in generally no less than 50 square surface feet. The depth should range between 18 and 24 inches. You'll have more maintenance issues with a pond more than 3 feet in depth.
  6. Decide what shape you like. Your options are limited only by your imagination and budget. Look through some home and yard magazines for ideas.
  7. Check the local building codes regarding ponds in your area. Some places require a fence to be constructed around ponds of certain depths. You may also need a building permit. Ask your dealer about the requirements in your community.
  8. Be familiar with the electrical codes governing outdoor use of electricity and fixtures if you plan to have lighting.
  9. Consider how long you want the pond to last, how much you want to spend on it, how good your installation resources are, and how available replacement materials are.
  10. Remember that if you want to have fish, you'll need a mechanical filter to remove debris particles from the water, and a biological filter to help control nitrogen levels.