GUIDE

All waterbodies behave differently.

Whether you are purchasing an existing fountain or aerator or planning to build one, understanding the characteristics of the waterbody is critical to making informed decisions.

This guide provides key considerations for your waterbody. We are happy to answer any questions you may have before buying a property with a fountain or the building process begins.

Knowing the total surface acres is instrumental in estimating costs for water treatments, aeration, or potential dredging.

Depth isn’t just about diving in—shallow ponds can be problematic, freezing easily in winter and disrupting the water’s ecosystem. Knowing these depths is crucial for the pond’s long-term maintenance needs.

It is important to understand how the pond behaves throughout the year. Does it become full of weeds and debris in the summer, requiring dredging or other muck removal methods? Does the water level fluctuate, drying up in one season and flooding the next? Knowing the history will help you avoid headaches down the road.

The shoreline of your pond affects water circulation. A gentle slope allows for plant growth that helps filter pollutants and provides habitats for wildlife. A buffer zone of natural vegetation or rocks around the pond can prevent erosion and runoff into the water.

Healthy sediment acts as a natural filter, but unhealthy sediment can muck up the water, smother plants, and contribute to nutrient pollution. The latter requires sediment removal via dredging or other means.

An inflow can introduce new vegetation and nutrients to your water. Outflows, on the other hand, can help flush out pollutants, but it may be difficult to maintain certain water treatments.

The presence of fish can be a good sign, but it’s important to know who the current residents are. Knowing who calls the pond home will determine which water treatments are safe for a healthy, balanced water ecosystem.

Do you plan on fishing or swimming in your water? Or do you prefer a natural pond? Fish need a balanced ecosystem, swimmers need clean water, and natural ponds thrive with native vegetation and wildlife. Knowing your goals sets you up for pond management success.

Pond-erings

Your waterbody is its own ecosystem teeming with life, but keeping it gorgeous and healthy can be intimidating. Dive into the McCloud Aquatics blog to learn more about your pond, crystal-clear waters, thriving aquatic life, and balanced ecosystems.

Pond-erings

Your water feature is its own ecosystem teeming with life, but keeping it gorgeous and healthy can be intimidating. Dive into the McCloud Aquatics blog to learn more about your pond, crystal-clear waters, thriving aquatic life, and balanced ecosystems.