How to Build a Pond in Your Backyard

Creating a pond in your front or backyard could be the perfect addition to your new landscaping once you move to Omaha. There's something about free flowing water and the gurgling that comes from a fountain that makes a pond calming, relaxing and enjoyable for the whole family. If you are interested in building a pond, read these easy-to-follow steps from Omaha movers to create your very own oasis for less than $300, in about 6 hours.

1. Map out the site of your pond - Before you start digging, Omaha movers recommend mapping out an area for a 40-square foot pond. For this size pond, you'll need an area about 7 feet by 4 feet. If you are not exactly sure where your electric and gas lines are located, contact your local call center or dial 811 to have a professional come and mark where these areas are. Once those lines are distinguished, make sure you are planning to dig away from them to avoid damage. You will also need to place your pond where it is in reach of an exterior outlet, so you can plug the water pump in.

2. Consider the depth of your pond - If you are moving to Omaha and planning on building a pond, you will have to decide how deep your pond needs to be, depending on what you are planning on putting in it. You'll want to initially build a shallow terrace just on the inside perimeter of your pond where you can place plants. Adding the proper vegetation to your pond's edge will help aerate the water, give fish a place to hide and will be esthetically appealing. Maintaining water temperature is key if you want to add fish to your small pond. Shallow water can heat up or cool down quickly, so if you are adding goldfish to your pond, you should dig 18-24 inches deep and for koi, you should excavate at least 3 feet down. While you dig, make sure you slope all the sides of your pond so if water freezes, it pushes up rather than out against the liner.

3. Line your pond - Once you have dug your small pond, you will need to line it to better maintain water level. Omaha movers suggest using the burlap bags or old newspaper you used during your move to Omaha to cover sharp rocks or roots that may be protruding through the sides of your dug hole. Once you have softened the jagged edges, place the liner in your pond. Use a liner that is weather proof so it can stand up to UV rays from the sun and freezing water. If you are planning to put fish in your new pond, you'll also want to make sure the liner is “fish-safe” rated.

4. Fill your Pond - As you fill your pond with water to the top border, pull the sides of the liner tight. Thereafter, make sure you are replacing any water that may have evaporated weekly.

5. Landscape your pond - Use rocks to create a beautiful border around your pond's edge and conceal the liner. Add plants in and around your pond to give it a more natural look and help create a balanced ecosystem for your fish.