PONDTRADETM Effects of conservation on aquatic wildlife - p.24 - POND Trade Magazine
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July/August 2021 US $6.95
PONDTRADE
TM
Serving Professionals in the Pond and Water Feature Industry
Effects of conservation
on aquatic wildlife
p.24
www.pondtrademag.com
Waterscape Edge Design p.16 New Koi on the Block p.41 Not Your Grandma's Pool p.46
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PONDTRADE
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Volume 26 | Issue 4 July/August 2021
Serving Professionals in the Pond and Water Feature Industry
34 Go Big or Go Home
They say that when someone tells you they can't
do something, you should believe them. Alan
Weene discusses positive attitude adjustments
and other ways for contractors of all sizes to feel
confident about building bigger and better.
41 New Koi on the Block LANGUAGE OF KOI
If we've learned anything from the pandemic, it's
that it's easier to stay healthy if you avoid being
around other people. The same is true for koi, as
Mark Gibson explains. This is why it's always
important to quarantine new koi populations.
46 24
46 Not Your Grandma's Pool
Tom Dieck and Dylan Arlotta revisit the
concept of a recreation pond — part pool, part
53 pond that merges the best of both worlds in any
backyard and can be enjoyed year-round, not just
when the weather is conducive to swimming.
FEATURES 53 Shell-Shocking!
Turtle ponds rising in popularity, but odds are
you've never seen a pond built for five 300-pound
African Sulcata tortoises. Kent Wallace gives a
8 When Less is More POND CONSTRUCTION tour of this one-of-a-kind project (and you might not
look at an avocado the same way again).
Building a pondless waterfall for a tiny house community in rural Texas had
its own set of unique challenges, recalls Matt Griffin. Today, the feature
enhances the enjoyment factor for those seeking a simpler way of living.
13 HELP! HELP!
From the service industry to the pond-services industry, the COVID-19
pandemic has turned the workforce upside down. Tom Grandy shares
advice on luring good workers back to their jobs. DEPARTMENTS
6 Upcoming Events
16 Pondering the Perimeter 57 Trade News
Unless you're building a formal pond with a uniform, standardized edge, 60 Marketplace
Jamie Beyer recommends considering multiple pond edge designs,
especially when building naturalistic and ecosystem ponds. Learn the
61 Advertisers’ Index
basics of aquatic border design and get inspired for your next build.
24 Romancing the Pond
COVER STORY COLUMNS
When selling a water feature, it's easy to focus on the "romantic" benefits, 7 Publisher’s Perspective
like soothing sounds of moving water or a calming destination to unwind
with a glass of wine. As Mike Gannon points out, a new pond's role
in environmental conservation may not be as sexy a selling point, but it
shouldn't be overlooked.
41 34
4 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 5
Upcoming Events Publisher’s Perspective
2021
PONDTRADE
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October 20 - 22
June 26 - September 11
Greater KC Water Garden Society Tour
"Puddle Jumping Water Garden Tour"
GIE+Expo / Hardscape North America
Kentucky Exposition Center
STAFF
Want a Job?
D
Louisville, Kentucky
Six weekend tours, various homes
www.kcwatergardens.com
www.gie-expo.com id I get your attention with that headline? I'll bet I USA IMPORTER OF THESE
www.hardscapena.com Publisher
Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921
did. Not to worry, I'm not selling or going anywhere, POPULAR EUROPEAN BRANDS
August 10 - 12 llgelles@pondtrademag.com and our editors, Jordan and Grant, are staying put, too.
October 21 - 23
IGC Garden Center Show
National Hardware Show
I just wanted to touch on the hot topic — and growing complaint
McCormick Place Editor that I keep hearing from many of you — that you can't find or
Las Vegas Convention Center
Chicago, Illinois Jordan Morris
Las Vegas, Nevada keep good help.
www.igcshow.com
www.nationalhardwareshow.com jmorris@pondtrademag.com
Who would have ever thought that
Are you attending an event that you
August 27 think others should know about? Are you we would come through a pandemic
Advertising Sales
Pondemonium Online hosting an event and want more people and end up with this problem? It's not
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to come? Send event info to llgelles@ Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921
One-day conference unique to our trade, either. Restaurants
pondtrademag.com. llgelles@pondtrademag.com
www.pondemonium.com
and a lot of other service-related small
Graphic Design businesses are feeling the squeeze
October 6 - 8 Gelles Graphics
www.unitedaquatics.com
Atlantic/Oase Conference when it comes to getting and staying
llgelles@comcast.net
Cleveland, Ohio fully staffed.
Accounts Receivable I'm sure you all have opinions on
October 13 - 14 Lois Spano this topic; it's a complicated one, for United Aquatics, LLC • 230 North Maple Avenue, B1 #338
Your Pond Farm lspano@pondtrademag.com sure. We are happy to have business Marlton, NJ 08053 • 856-985-9339
Virtual Trade Show
www.yourpondfarm.com expert Tom Grandy back this issue
Web Editor
("HELP, HELP!" pg. 13) with some advice on attracting high-
Grant Gerke
quality employees back to your business. How has your business
ggerke@acceleratedcontent.com
Printer
fared as the economy continues to come back? Stay in touch on
our Facebook page or through email, and please feel free to share
Great Opportunity!
Sutherland Printing any advice you feel might be helpful for your fellow pond profes- Business for Sale
Montezuma, Iowa sionals. Let's rely on each other and hope that things return to
Patio Ponds Ltd
normal soon!
Moving? Let Us Know As usual, we are packed this issue with lots of timely, stimu-
If you are moving, please update your address with For your
lating topics from around the pond world. Jamie Beyer has an
us so we can update our records.
Free Subscription informative rundown of different pond edge designs ("Pondering Building America’s Best Pond Filters since 1987
Use the forms from the post office, or drop us an the Perimeter," pg. 16) that might be a source for inspiration.
email at llgelles@pondtrademag.com with your old
see our
and new contact information. website www.pondtrademag.com We're also taking another look at recreation ponds ("Not Your ● 70,000+ satisfied customers
Grandma's Pool," pg. 46) through the eyes of the Aquascapes East
or call 708/873-1921 team of Dylan Arlotta and Tom Dieck. Alan Weene provides ● View all 14 models at:
motivation for reaching for the stars ("Go Big or Go Home," pg.
www.patioponds.com/pdfs/catalog.pdf
34) when it comes to large-scale projects. Finally, you won't want
Contact Info
POND Trade Magazine, ISSN 1949-0585 is a trade POSTMASTER: Send address changes to POND Trade Magazine, to miss Mike Gannon's conservationist feature that goes with the ● Made with pride in the USA
publication of LG Publishing, Inc. Material is selected for its interest PO BOX 2721, Orland Park, IL 60462 POND Trade Magazine beautiful frog on the cover ("Romancing the Pond," pg. 24), and if
to the koi, water feature and pond industries, and the publishers accept © Lora Lee Gelles, 2021 P.O. Box 2721
you still haven't satisfied your reptile fix, check out Kent Wallace's
● Complete listing at www.patioponds.com
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6 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 7
Pond Construction
When Less is More
Pondless waterfall has big impact on
tiny house community
by Matt Griffin, for a tiny home can be enjoyed by the
PrimeLawn greater community.
The Mackey family contacted us after
P
ondless waterfalls can create a big settling down in a tiny house community
impact on any property. Over the in Willis, Texas. They had fallen in love
years, we have had a lot of success with the concept of a pondless waterfall
designing and installing many pondless after watching countless hours of footage
waterfalls. They fit into almost any space on YouTube, and they were envisioning
and provide a peaceful setting for the something for all their new neighbors in
client’s private enjoyment. the community to enjoy as well. They had
However, for this build, the enjoyment a good idea of what they liked but had no
factor was anything but private. idea how impactful it could really be.
Tiny House Craze A Unique Approach
Since the 1970s, the tiny house move- We as designers are always thinking
ment has grown in popularity among about aesthetics, but when we are building
those seeking a return to simpler living. By in a public area, we also need to think about
definition, a tiny house is a dwelling unit durability and safety. During the planning
with no more than 400 square feet of floor process, it is important to talk with the
area. Aside from affordability, the perks clients about these things. Taking these
of living in a tiny house include environ- elements into consideration as a designer
mental friendliness, a rustic lifestyle and a will help the client understand why we do
focus on community rather than the indi- some of the things we do during the instal-
vidual. As these small habitats are gener- lation process.
ally found in clusters, any outdoor project For example, if someone likes to climb
Water cascades along this
26-foot-long pondless
feature with waterfall.
8 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 9
all over the boulders, they need to be lights that can be controlled from a all the products, warranties, a catalog
sturdy. If we are building a pooling smartphone. and other information for the feature
area, I like to use Black Star gravel to The stone that we selected was Texas we’d just installed. This is always of
create more of a beachlike entry to granite moss rock for its capability to high value to the client, knowing that
the vault. (Plus, the gravel will not provide interesting-looking boulders they have part numbers for items that
slide under your feet!) Edging streams with moss, eroded edges and a neutral they may need to replace in the future.
is a big part of making any water color that suits almost any project. We sat down with the client to go over
feature look natural. Outcroppings Each boulder is machine set; this way, warranties, maintenance and care of
are also so important yet sometimes each stone is installed exactly how we their feature, explaining in detail the
overlooked; we install them to balance
out a new feature. Water runs over the
Gaps in the rocks are impor- rocks, naturally creating
tant so we can incorporate plants. a tranquil setting within
the landscape.
Aquatic plants are a great way to
The basin/pump vault soften edges from inside a stream and
for water storage is Each boulder is set in place safely and quickly basin area. We also landscape around
under construction. with an excavator in a way that looks natural. pondless features to fill in the natural
design of the water feature. Blending
helps to enhance the outcroppings
while making the water feature fit
into the existing landscape, just as if
they had evolved together. We love
including LED lighting packages in
all our pondless waterfalls to create a
space for outdoor entertainment and
enjoyment beyond daylight hours
and well into the evening.
Designing for Safety want to see it in nature, creating a land- mechanics and what to do and when.
As a Master Certified Aquascape scape that is natural looking to attract This way, they're not just new pond
Contractor, we use Aquascape prod- birds and nature to the space — yet still owners — they're confident pond
ucts in our builds, like flow-control colorful to catch the human eye. owners.
pumps and energy-efficient dosing The biggest challenge on this Now the Mackeys have a beauti-
systems that release bacteria into the project was maximizing the visibility ful pondless waterfall, not only for the
water feature or pond automatically. of the waterfalls from so many direc- family to enjoy, but also to share with
Color-changing lights are also a great tions with only 3 feet of elevation to their entire tiny house community! a
addition to any pond or water feature. work with. The waterfall cascades had
I not only wanted the Mackeys’ to be just right, and I think we nailed it!
pondless waterfall to stand out, but I The cascading falls are visible from all
also had to make sure it was safe for directions, capturing the eye of anyone About the Author
neighboring residents to visit and walking by from even 100 feet away.
Matt Griffin is the owner of
enjoy. We had about a 3-foot eleva- Prime Lawn in Houston, Texas. As a
tion change to work with, so we were A Community Gem
Master Certified
able to create multiple drops and This project was started and Aquascape
different types of waterfalls in differ- completed in three days, including Contractor, he
ent areas. We used Aquascape’s SLD the landscape work. We really wanted has been design-
adjustable flow pump (5,000 – 9,000 to design and build out not just the ing and building
gallons per hour), a solids-handling feature, but also the landscape. The outdoor spaces
pump with Wi-Fi smart controls that landscape is the finishing touch and for 20 years,
can be controlled from a smart phone a very important part of the project, having won
three Aquascape
or tablet. We also integrated a dosing softening the boulders and giving it
Awards. His passion is creating water
The completed water system that releases bacteria in small the most natural look possible.
feature still shimmers features and complementing them with
six months later.
doses throughout the day. To finish During the final walkthrough, we patios and outdoor living areas to create
it off, we added color-changing LED provided the client with a packet with perfect spaces for his clients to enjoy.
10 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 11
Worker Shortage
Beautifully simple water gardening
HELP! HELP!
How to cope with the shortage of workers
by Tom Grandy, are a few strategies and ideas that might just help
Grandy & Associates attract help in the not-too-distant future.
T
he phone is ringing. People are out there Reward Performance
spending money. All of a sudden, it seems Workers tend to be attracted to companies that
like everyone who had ever thought about appreciate and award good performance. Every
wanting a pond — both residential and commercial employee needs a sort of carrot dangling in front
— suddenly wants you to build it, tomorrow! Sales of them to increase productivity. Likewise, your
are through the roof. Clearly, the economy is back. workers want you to know they’re doing a good job.
But, just there’s one problem. There is a serious The point is pretty simple. Create a system that
shortage of qualified technicians — not just in the rewards performance. If they work a bit harder or
To learn more, contact our Dealer Support Team at 800-353-3444 pond industry, but also throughout most of the more efficiently, they earn a bonus. You’ve likely
or email us at newcustomers@rchagen.com trades out there. heard the age-old advice, “Reward performance
If you were hoping for a silver bullet that you want repeated.” How does that help recruit
would allow you to immediately hire as many new workers? Good employees are currently out
workers as you needed, I am afraid that you’re there seeking out companies that both appreciate
going to be a bit disappointed. While there are their work and provide rewards for outstanding
© 2018 by Rolf C. Hagen Inc. Laguna is a registered trademark of Rolf C. Hagen Inc. no instant answers to the worker shortage, there performance.
July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 13
Consider a Wage Hike and respectful. When my to work for? Is there a
wife and I run into an indi- family environment? Do
Increasing your hourly rate may
vidual like this, we always your employees want to
not be as costly as you think. Several
turn to each other and be there? Family environ-
years ago, I was doing some consult-
say, “I’ll bet that person is ments attract others who
ing for a services company. Most
not here the next time we want this type of relation-
companies in their area were paying
workers $18 to $25 per hour for the come!” Clearly, others will ship. When you found that
same service. My client company was notice their work ethic and first special friend when you
paying their workers $35 per hour! attitude and consider offer- were young, I’ll bet it wasn’t
I asked how he could afford to do ing them a job. long before there were other
that. His reply surprised me a bit at Whenever you run into kids in your neighborhood
first. He explained that paying the someone like this, hand who joined the gang, too.
them a business card and A true family environment
tell them how much you attracts employees who are
appreciate their attitude. also seeking out family.
Tell them to give you a If you create this family
call if they ever consider environment, pay above-
changing careers. I know industry wages and bene-
some contractors who have
fits, recognize and reward
done this, and they ended
outstanding performance,
up getting calls months
and surround yourself with
and sometimes years later.
others who have great atti-
The principle is simple:
tudes, you still may not find
highest wages in the area not only Hire for attitude and train
new employees as quickly as
attracted the best workers, but also for service. Finding new
you need them. But doing
came with other benefits as well. His workers in today’s market is
a job in itself. these things will certainly
higher-paid employees were more effi- attract new employees over
cient, seldom called in sick, grumbled time, and I would be willing
less, were responsible for a limited Foster a Family
Environment to bet that most workers of
number of callbacks, and were more
this caliber will also stick
respectful to both management and the Family is special. When around for an extended time.
customers. Turnover was down, which you were growing up, you
After all, happy employees
also which minimized the need for probably had at least one
training (and the associated expense). often talk about their jobs
special friend with whom
Simply building a workforce he could around their friends. They
you wanted to spend as
count on more than made up for the just might want to work for
much time as you could.
extra dollars he was paying. It definitely Why? Because you felt loved you, too! a 1 Hp CasCade 5000 $869.9
5
makes sense when you think about it. and accepted. Floating Pond Fountain Aerator
How many times have Tom Grandy has more 100 ft Power Cord • Light • Timer • EZ Installation!
Keep Your Eyes Open you heard someone say the than 35 years of experi-
ence in industry and small
Let’s face it, not everyone excelled place where they work is
business. He is the founder
UltraFalls 12,000
in high school. I, for one, did not wake like being part of a family? Super Efficiency Low-Head Centrifugal Water Pump
up to the fact that I was going to have to Family works hard together, of Grandy & Associates, a 12,000 gallon/hour Max Flow – just 2.3 amps!
make a living one day until I was in the relaxes together, meets each firm that holds seminars, Perfect for Waterfalls
middle of my junior year. Guess what? other’s needs and is willing two day workshops and one-
There are a lot of quality individuals, to lay down their lives for on-one consulting for busi-
myself included, who woke up late. each other. Really great ness training. Grandy &
So, where are they? Many are in work families are hard to Associates also writes articles
the retail or food industry, or perhaps find, but when you do find for numerous trade publica- $ave Thousands!
“Pump Performance Like No Other” $1 ,194
employed at a place like Walmart. one it’s really, really special. tions. Tom routinely presents Long Life • Low Heat • 2 Year Warranty
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I’m sure you have walked into a store It’s a group you want to be at national and state conven- Continuous Duty • Virtually Silent • Pays for Itself
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14 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 15
Edge Treatments
Pondering the Perimeter
Tips for waterscape edge design
by Jamie Beyer, among misguided attempts to edge informal, natu-
Midwest Landscapes ral-looking ponds.
W
hen the subject of edges on water Lay the Groundwork
gardens comes up, I cannot help The first step with the installation of any edge
but think of the phrase “sedges have is to dig and shape the soil so that it supports the
edges.” In other words, if the stems of a marginal chosen designs. Water levels must be known and
water plant have distinct edges, you can be reason- appropriate for any edge. Some edges allow for a
ably sure that it is a sedge. wide fluctuation in water levels, whereas others
All ponds also have edges, and each type of look odd if the levels are not spot on.
water garden has a set of circumstances that helps When planning your pond, determine the edge
determine the best type of edge for your pond. designs before any soil is removed. Once the soil is
disturbed, it is very difficult to reestablish the soil
Form & Function
structure so that it will be stable enough to support
Think about the purpose of the pond edge. the edge. In your pond’s design, consider where
Protecting and anchoring the waterproof liner are a concrete underlayment would be useful, like in
initial considerations. The aesthetics of creating an areas where the soil is unstable, the pond is steep-
edge that enhances a beautiful water garden and sided and deep, or where heavy, large rocks may be
blends with the overall garden design is the fun placed. In areas where concrete is used, be aware of
part. It is also critical that the edge be stable and utility lines going in and out of the pond. You may
last for many years. need to create a gap to allow for those lines. Do
There are other important aspects to be aware a good job of planning before doing any digging.
of when designing an edge. Besides being stable
and long lasting (i.e., will not deteriorate over Ledge Considerations
time), it also needs to deter critters, provide entry
and exit points for pond maintenance, be itself Part of every edge design is figuring out the
easily maintained, include wildlife considerations, depth of the ledges you want to create. I am a
and, most of all, be beautiful. So, when I mull over huge fan of going to a depth of 12 inches to the
all the choices of edge designs, these aspects are first ledge. At this depth, you will deter some crit-
considered. ters from being effective predators — in particu-
Something I like to promote with any edge plan lar, raccoons. As I like to say, when a raccoon is
is varying the design between two or three differ- doing a back stroke, it cannot catch fish. It is also a
ent types of edges. This reduces the likelihood of good depth for when a person steps into the pond
a “necklace” look around the perimeter of a water to perform maintenance. If it is deeper than 12
garden. This look, while often used successfully in inches, then it is a huge step!
formal edge designs, is encountered way too often In addition, marginal plants in pots can be set
This a traditional rock edge that protects and
16 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com holds the liner in place while still looking beautiful.
FRESH NEW LOOK! MADE IN
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SAME TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS!
This is a great example of successfully incorporating a variety of stone sizes into the pond's edge.
at this depth without the pot showing. areas with a flat landscape, there is still barely noticeable. In areas where water
This depth is perfect for most of the a grade where water will pool or run normally flows, like a depression or
designs that I will be discussing. When off. This water will contain both surface gully, this area of raised soil will need
looking at the design drawings, this debris and anything that was applied to to be higher. It concerns me when I
We are very excited to announce that our re-branding of our Microbe-Lift/Pond, Birdbaths & Fountain Products is complete. We started two depth is apparent in most of them. the surrounding landscape, like fertiliz- recall the number of times I have heard
years ago with the Re-Brand of our Microbe-Lift/Legacy Koi & Goldfish food and haven’t stopped since! EPDM-lined ponds that have a people say they need to put their water
sloped ledge or even an entire sloped garden in a low spot. This is a natural
After almost two decades of having the #1 requested brand name of Pond and Water Gardens products it was time for a FRESH NEW LOOK! impulse, since natural bodies of water
bottom can be a huge design mistake.
This project is over 2 years in the making from conceptualizing to finalizing the artwork for all of our products in each of their sizes. The new If the entire bottom is sloped and lined occur in the low areas. However, unless
look will modernize our footprint for all Microbe-Lift customers. The best technology in the business now has the best look in the business! with rock, the rock on the slope of the you install this collar, these can be the
pond leading up to the edge is depen- worst places in the landscape for a water
Microbe-Lift Products are now Enforced by Our MAP Policy! dent on the rock in the deeper part of the feature.
bottom to hold it in place. If the liner is
not covered with a stable layer of rock, it Rock it Out
is almost impossible to stand up without Let’s start with the traditional, widely
slipping or sliding while maintaining used informal design of placing rocks
the pond. I aim for a slight slope on the down to the first ledge in the water.
bottom to allow sediment to accumulate Rocks are placed down to the shelf
in a sediment basin or bottom drain, but Stacked stone works quite well when it is and are interlocked with each other for
this slope must be minimal. protected by a deck to prevent someone from stability.
stepping on the rocks. I would personally prefer
I incorporate a collar of raised soil to see an even wider variety of stone sizes. It takes some practice to become a
around almost the entire outside perim- good “rocker” — i.e., choosing and then
Ecological Laboratories, Inc. Actual Lab eter of the pond edge in all my edge ers and chemicals. placing the stone appropriately. Always
designs to prevent any surface water in I cannot overstress the importance vary the size of the stone in this design:
the surrounding terrain from entering of at least a 2-inch raised area that anything from huge stones (18 to 24
www.MicrobeLift.com the pond during heavy rain events. In is gradually sloped away so that it is inches in diameter) to small stones. You
Providing Aquatic Solutions Since 1976 July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 19could create an upper, shallower shelf of 6 inches so that it element of this design.
does not take as much interlocking stone. This shelf is for Another critical consideration is that concrete is very
just the stone. You would still want to create the 12-inch abrasive to the liner. So, the concrete will need to have a
shelf below this that would not have any rock placed on it. protective underlayment installed over it before the liner
A hint for locking the stone in place is to use small is laid down. Any freeze-thaw cracking of the concrete
stones among the larger ones. You could also use expand- that occurs over the winter is normally not an issue, since
ing foam or, better yet, mortar mix concrete to lock it is under the flexible liner. The very stable base really will
not move very much.
You have the option of rocking the
Bog Edges
entire shelf, but I prefer not to do this.
An edge design that is fun and can be incorporated
I like having a place to step when into any informal design is a bog edge. This is simple to
entering a pond and placing pots of create, but water levels need to be determined exactly.
water plants on this shelf. Dig a pocket in the edge approximately 12 inches deep,
varying this depth depending on the plants you choose
for this wet area. (In most cases, I think 12 inches is good.)
them in place. However, do not rely entirely on the foam Place a raised area that is stable and made of either
or concrete to keep them locked. In time, even these concrete or stone with liner overlaying it between the bog
can break away, so do a good job of locking the stones and the main water garden. This maintains the integrity
together. The stone covers all the liner along the edge so of the pocket of soil that is created so that it doesn’t wash
that none shows, even with some fluctuations in water out. On the turf side of the bog, use stone to anchor the
level. Rock is placed on the turf side of the liner as well so liner and cover it. The soil in the bog will need to be equal
that it sandwiches the liner. parts topsoil, peat moss and sharp sand (also known as
You have the option of rocking the entire shelf, but I prefer play sand). Top the soil with a thin layer of ¾-inch gravel.
not to do this. I like having a place to step when entering a I would not use any fertilizers or animal manure in this
pond and placing pots of water plants on this shelf. When mix.
the shelf beyond the edge is entirely rocked, these activi- The roots of the plants will need a constant supply of
ties become a nightmare. Also, most pond plants, if planted water over the top to keep the soil in this bog aerated.
among the rocks, will proliferate throughout the rocks. Then Ideally, the best bogs have plants with only a couple of
even the plants become a problem. An added design element inches of water over their crowns. Some plants can toler-
is to create a place in the edge to be able to easily enter and ate more water over their crowns than others. Two inches
exit the pond. Find the perfect, mostly flat stone and place allows water levels to fluctuate without exposing the liner.
it in a stable configuration so that the edge can be safely I would not use this design around the entire edge of the
stepped on. Do this in a couple of places, if possible. water garden — only on the far side, where you are not
normally viewing the pond or maintaining it. This is a
Stack it! good example of using multiple edge designs to create
Another informal design that is much simpler requires interest.
the availability of more mostly flat stone. The rocks them-
selves do not have to be perfectly flat, but they do need to Critter Considerations
be stable when stacked. This does not take as many tons of A wildlife-friendly type of edge consisting of a shallow
stone. In a lot of areas, this type of stone is normally lime- slope can be a good one, but it does have its drawbacks
stone, which naturally is relatively flat. If necessary, more — especially the tendency for string algae to grow prolifi-
flat stones can be stacked so that water levels can fluctuate cally in these areas. Wading birds, raccoons and other fish
more without seeing the liner. predators love using a shallow edge to enter and exit a
A variation from this stacked design is to use human- pond. However, so many other great critters are attracted
made concrete decorative blocks of many designs. This is to it, so it’s worth considering in certain situations.
Traditional informal edges using granite rocks are quite popular. The more of a formal design and needs to be installed perfectly This is easy to create and does not take a lot of effort to A stacked flagstone edge (top) requires more accurate leveling of the
rocks can be stacked down to the first shelf (top) and interlocked with rock. A ledge or raised area of about 18 inches will need edge. A bog edge (middle) should be combined with other edge
each other. The raised collar of soil outside the edge (middle) prevents
flat. In almost every situation when I have used this type
designs so that it is implemented in only a portion of the edge
water runoff from entering the pond. When possible, implementing a of stone, I have laid a concrete base so that these blocks to be created out of either stone or concrete under the perimeter. A more wildlife-friendly edge (bottom) is inviting for birds
simpler rock edge (bottom) will save on construction costs. of stone will not move over time. The base is a critical liner to keep the gravel from sliding into the pond. This and other critters to easily wade in and enjoy.
20 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 21A limestone edge provides
easy access to the entire
perimeter of the pond.
About the Author
The very popular subject of adding water
features to a garden is one that Jamie Beyer
brings a lot of knowledge and enthusiasm to. Jamie
is a Lifetime Master Gardener and
is founder and Past President of
the Central Iowa Water Garden
Association. He combines this
experience with his Master's
Degree in Fish and Wildlife
Biology to become uniquely quali-
fied to be one of the Midwest's
foremost experts on the subject. His
broad background of fisheries, dynamics of water,
wildlife ecology, and horticulture gives him impres-
sive credentials.
creates a small, sloped area only in the are formal, and a lot that are informal Jamie frequently speaks and writes on all
edge that goes from zero depth inward and more natural looking. Your imag- aspects of water features and water gardening.
about 8 to 12 inches. Again, I would ination and creativity are the fun part In addition, he also has a consulting/installation
WHY NOT PUMP
of deciding which edge design fits best business, called Midwest Waterscapes, which
use this edge in combination with
he works as a water garden, fountain and pond
several other edge designs. I would in your landscape. Whatever design
PERFORMANCE
consultant/installer to people that want extra
not use this type of edge around the you choose, just remember that your help. Jamie has considerable experience installing
entire perimeter. edge needs to be stable, long lasting,
THAT STANDS OUT
ponds, diagnosing water garden problems, teach-
All ponds have edges — some that easily maintained and beautiful. a ing classes and helping do-it-yourselfers do it right.
FROM THE CROWD?
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22 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.comCover Story
Romancing
the Pond
A pond's conservationist effects on wildlife
by Mike Gannon, one eventually end up by the pond? What some
Full Service Aquatics may not know is that there is a whole other world
happening right along with us that also has all its
T
he act of pond keeping is a powerful thing, escapades ending up by or even in the pond. The
with an appeal that is broad and deep. Pond outside world has a powerful response to the koi
keeping can mean many different things to ponds and water gardens that many of our indus-
as many different pond keepers. We all have our own try’s professionals install. The majority of these
reasons for keeping a pond. ponds are installed primarily for the artistry and
As a pond professional, I tend to lean toward
the romantic side of ponds when I find myself in
the process of bringing a client into the lifestyle of
pond keeping. I’ll talk to potential clients about
the fun of interacting with fish, the relaxing and
soothing audio qualities of cascading waterfalls,
the dramatic nighttime effects of submersible pond
lighting, the appeal of enjoying leisure time with
family and friends by the pond, and the draw of
simply unwinding with a glass of wine by the pond
and watching the swirling colors of fish just below
the surface of the water.
It’s a seductive process. Very rarely do I take a
client down the road of the practical or pragmatic Ponds can help remediate the global decline in frog habitats.
side of pond keeping and leave the romance of a
pond to the side. Instead, I like to discuss how a aesthetic appeal that a professionally designed and
new water garden can become a powerful tool of installed pond offers.
conservation. But when considered through the prism
of conservation, koi pond water gardens are a
Nature’s Water Cooler complex and powerful tool to aid in multiple pres-
We all know that a professionally installed koi ervation efforts. Once we look past the stunning
Lighting, waterfalls, and some petite sirah
are simple introductions to the romantic pond water garden always becomes the center of visual beauty of the aquatic art we create, we can
lifestyle of pond keeping. attention for gatherings, get-togethers and the begin to see the greater effect that these aquatic
occasional romantic escapade. Doesn’t every- features have on the area that surrounds them.
24 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 25Frogs, dragonflies and other wildlife will utilize a backyard pond as a complete habitat from birth to death.
A newly installed pond where there Topics of Conservation an environment where there was not
was once none will have an immedi- one previously. In doing so, we are also
The pond is a powerful tool of conser-
ate and vital impact on the natural adding species of animals and plants into
vation with far-reaching consequences.
world surrounding it. A pond becomes an area where they once did not exist.
A basic definition of conservation is
nature’s “water cooler,” where locals These are not naturally occurring bodies
the protection, preservation, manage-
gather — local wildlife, that is. of water, yet they function in many of the
ment, or restoration of wildlife and
Take a bird’s-eye view of any neigh- same ways as a naturally occurring pond.
natural resources, such as forests and
borhood that is void of a pond or water water. Conservation is something of an
feature. Imagine dropping a pond right umbrella term, having broader catego-
Ecosystem Ponds
in the middle of that neighborhood. ries that break down into 2 distinct types: There are many ways to build ponds.
Once the pond has landed, envision in-situ and ex-situ. (Some of them even work!) Among the
the concentric circles of impact that the In-situ conservation concerns itself tested and proven approaches to pond
pond will have, emanating out from with naturally occurring elements of design, there are ecosystem ponds. This
the pond like the ripples created from biodiversity, the species involved, their method of pond construction lends
tossing a pebble across still water. Those habitats and greater ecosystems. The itself particularly well to a pond design
ripples are the conservational influence ex-situ branch of conservation deals catered to conservation efforts. These
that a pond will have on the area it is more with elements of biodiversity that systems are typically built with profes-
introduced into.
The impact of the pond can stretch
far beyond the immediate area of the
The impact of the pond can also stretch far beyond the
pond itself. Fish, plants, frogs, aquatic immediate area of the pond itself. Fish, plants, frogs,
insects and numerous other species aquatic insects and numerous other species enjoy the
enjoy the benefits of living right inside
benefits of living right inside the pond.
the pond. A family of chipmunks
living 40 feet away from the pond
takes drinks and scavenges around occur out of the context of their natural sional-grade equipment such as pond
the pond for meals. A gray fox a mile habitats — think zoos, aquariums, botan- skimmers and biofalls filtration.
away uses the pond as a private water- ical gardens, arboretums and similar However, the hallmark of the
ing hole for its pups. A blue heron types of conservation-based efforts. ecosystem approach to construction
15 miles away might find a meal in Ex-situ conservation is where koi is the use of rock in the interior of
the pond, while a monarch butterfly pond water gardens come into play. Our the pond and a gravel substrate. With
stops for refreshment at the pond on constructed backyard koi ponds and the correct use of rock and gravel, the
its multi-thousand-mile journey of a water gardens are an ex-situ approach to groundwork is laid for conservation to
lifetime. conservation because we add ponds into begin at the microbial level from day
Ponds become critical lifelines for wildlife
when watering holes dry up or freeze over. July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 27one, with species density and types and woodland crea- wildlife species to find our but there are also snails, ing a vital source of water, pond as an act of conservation,
complexity growing daily. tures from squirrels and ponds. Turtles, snakes and slugs, spiders, ants, crick- food and shelter, representing it can be dialed in to appeal to
A fully mature and healthy rabbits to deer, fox, bats other reptiles will also find ets, beetles and other unac- a complete habitat for some specific species. Frog ponds,
ecosystem pond can host and bears. Amphibians and utilize available ponds countable beneficiaries of a species from the moment the turtle ponds, dragonfly ponds,
many hundreds of species. such as frogs, toads, sala- to their benefit. pond. Honeybees need to live pond is filled. A web of life salamander ponds, bird ponds,
Our ponds quickly near a water source and will develops around ponds. trout ponds, wildlife ponds,
become a center of activity certainly use any pond local Conservation may be an lily ponds — these represent
for not only the introduced to them. Even nearby land- inadvertent side effect for some only a few of the possibilities.
species, such as aquatic scape plants will work their pond keepers, but it should be Ponds are powerful tools. “If
plants and fish that can live way toward the ponds that something they are aware of. you build it, they will come.”
and breed through numer- we install, sometimes putting They should be proud of such Pond builders are in a great
ous generations, but also quite a bit of energy into a contribution to the local position to act as ambassadors
the local wildlife. It will getting a root into the pond environment. Ponds become a for conservation efforts. Host
usually be only a matter of system for a constant source critical lifeline during droughts a build-a-pond day focused on
minutes before at least one of water. It seems that species and deep freezes, when water- conservation. Hold a seminar
bird shows up to explore the on every level responds to the ing holes dry up or freeze over. by the pond with conserva-
new watering hole, and word presence of a pond. And let’s not forget to mention tion-based topics. Promoting
tends to spread quite quickly If you build a pond, many the domestic pets who also conservation is promoting
Beautiful and romantic waterfalls are also pragmatic and practical ways might happen upon a much-
from there. to create better conditions for local wildlife. different species will start to your profession as a pond
A typical pond keeper show up in a broad spectrum needed drink (or even a cool builder.
should not be surprised that manders and newts often Hundreds of species of of forms, from microbes to dip) from our backyard ponds. As pond professionals who
many species of animals make a pond their home insects will utilize your pond. apex predators. Our ponds are doing our best to bring
somehow manage to find or breeding ground. Frogs We all love the dragonflies, help in the conservation of If You Build it … new people into the world of
Fish and plants are not the only beneficiaries of a koi pond.
There is an entire world happening in our water gardens!
their pond — birds of all are usually
PT_hecht_rubber_2021_final.pdf 1 among10:48
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28 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 29want to use the pond as a conve-
nient place to fornicate. Let’s stick
to the sirah — may I suggest some About the Author
Koi Pond Cellars?
As we dot the landscapes with Mike Gannon is the owner of Full
Service Aquatics based in Stewartsville,
our microcosms of conservation,
New Jersey. Mike has been a lifelong pond
let’s take the time to let our clients
enthusiast and fish-
know what they are embarking on. keeper. Mike began
It’s more than landscape jewelry. Full Service Aquatics
It’s even more than romance. Let’s after working as a
give our customers the unromantic fish importer/dealer
In an example of true conservation, frogs side of pond keeping, too, which and time at the New
can emerge from a pond only to return has its own appeal. If it comes York Aquarium. FSA
again and complete another cycle of life. down to a feel-good version of what has been special-
we may still need to stick to the pond professionals do, we might izing in koi pond, water garden, and water
more romantic aspects of pond find that hitting our clients over feature design and services since 1995;
keeping for now. After all, telling the head with the pragmatic facts and more recently Mike opened a desti-
nation pond retail location called THAT
a new client which petite sirah will of how powerful a tool for conser-
POND PLACE also based in Stewartsville.
pair perfectly with their view of vation a pond can be is the way to
Mike is host of The Koi Pond Water
the waterfall might go over a little go. Hey, a colony of eastern brown
Garden Podcast found on iTunes, and his
better than pointing out that a local bats making your yard a watering Pond Hunter video series can be found at WHOLESALE PRICING
YOU BUILD
bat colony will depend on their and feeding hole might be more youtube.com/thepondhunter. Mike is also AND SERVICE
pond for a clean water source, or romantic than we ever could have the author of the Love Your Pond blog found We support your business with
that the bird-faced tree frog may thought! a at www.fullserviceaquatics.com. very competitive pricing and a
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Go BIG or Go Home
How to become a big fish in any sized pond
by Alan Weene, able stream of revenue?
Reflections Water Gardens Staying within our comfort zones is
easy and familiar, requiring less bravery
E
ven small water feature contractors on our part. But if this is what you think
can make a big splash by reeling in of yourself, then it's all you and your busi-
high-value construction projects. You ness will ever be — a small fish in a big
don’t have to be the best water feature artisan, pond.
the biggest company, the least expensive “I can’t build big water features
bidder or even the most experienced contrac-
tor in order to win a lot of the major jobs
out there. So, get rid of any presumptions
you might have that only the big fish get to
build big projects and make the big bucks.
It may not happen overnight, but with the
right attitude, motivated daily behaviors and
thoughtful techniques, you can find yourself
reeling in bigger, more valuable jobs and
filling your business pipeline with money-
making projects that will cement your status
as an industry leader.
Be the Big Fish
When you wake up in the morning, how Natural-looking water features and vibrant
would you rate yourself and your business landscapes are within your reach.
on a scale of 1 to 10? Do you ever struggle
to win bids or turn profits, despite being a because I don’t have the skills, experience
hard worker? Maybe you’ve been given an or equipment to get the job done.” “The
opportunity to bid a big job but decided people in my service area aren’t the kind
Do you work with large boulders (right) to create natural waterscapes? Be to pass it up for several smaller, more of clients who will spend a lot of money
transparent about your process and show your customers how you do it! manageable jobs in your comfort zone? on an outdoor living space.” If you’ve ever
Be intentional with your messaging. Photos and videos of your crew
working well as a team (above) can be an effective way to tell your story. Or maybe you’ve simply decided that your said this (or something like it) to yourself,
business is only capable of handling small, then you’re probably right! You’ll continue
commodity-style water features because to work your rear end off and struggle to
you can finish them quickly and move on turn profits. You’ll keep filling your portfo-
to the next one — an unassuming, yet reli- lio with images of modest projects, which,
34 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com July/August 2021 POND Trade Magazine 35You can also read
