The previous article explored the environmental impact and how-to of creating a fishing pond, now we’ll look at another kind of pond.

Like fishing ponds, koi ponds know how to multitask. They attract dragonflies, butterflies, mosquito-eating insects and birds, and provide a healthy habitat. Creating a new ecosystem, such as a koi pond, offers an enjoyable, hands-on experience with nature.

Environmental impact
Koi, sometimes called Japanese carp, are ornamental fish. Aggressive algae eaters, they also feast on bugs and mosquitoes. Koi come in many colors, patterns and varieties.

Koi ponds provide a place for birds to bathe and feed. Turtles and frogs naturally gravitate to them, too. With a slow rate of evaporation, koi ponds do not have run-off from rain, which reduces erosion.

A koi pond not only can impact the environment, it also can impact the owner’s lifestyle.

“Homeowners are able to melt into their backyard,” said Steve Wicker, owner of Cool Ponds. “With birds, fish and a natural habitat, they can unwind in the peace and tranquility of their back yard.”

DIY
Do-it-yourselfers who want to take on the task of building a koi pond should become knowledgeable before digging in.

“Develop a plan and get connected with a professional to get the tools and equipment to do the job right,” said Marc Miles, owner of Backyard Blessings.

Hiring a professional for the job brings expertise and experience to the project. Most offer a one-year warranty on their work.

The build
A koi pond should be at least 2 feet deep. This allows the fish to winter in the pond and prevents algae growth.

Healthy water requires aeration, circulation and filtration. Circulation must come from the bottom of the pond. If the pond is deeper than 4 feet, a bottom drain is needed.

Liners come in flexible rubber or preformed. Rubber liners conform to the shape of the hole and last 20 to 50 years depending on the thickness. Pre-formed liners typically are purchased as part of a kit.

“They normally have a life maximum of 10 years,” Miles said.

Green is good
Plant life helps oxygenate the pond water. Marginal plants grow 6 inches below the surface and then sprout above the water. Plants native to Indiana — such as water iris, horsetail, water lilies and miniature cattails — grow nicely around the sides. Floaters like water lettuce and water hyacinth thrive on the surface. Deep-water plants like lotus and water lilies absorb excess nutrients from the water.

Pitfalls of koi ponds
Koi ponds can bring a nice touch of nature to a boring back yard, but they’re not without complications. Keep in mind these tips when building your own pond.

The most common mistake is faulty building. Dig the pond at least 2 feet deep.

If the pond is less than 2 feet deep, use a floating deicer in winter.

Purchase a pump and filtration system to match the pond’s size.

The walls of the pond should be tall enough to keep rainwater from pouring in.

A skimmer and bio-filter are essential.

A koi pond requires maintenance to minimize growth of weeds and algae.

Professionals can offer coaching and advice for a healthy, productive koi pond.

—By Mindy Weaver-Flask, for Custom Publications

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