Photo Credit: Rick Pessimenti
Whether you’re just beginning to build a lake or pond or you’re finding it difficult to maintain one, developing a proper maintenance plan is essential. Although this plan is usually inexpensive, ignoring potential problems can cause plenty of headaches and added costs.
Connecting With The Right Contractor
Before building a lake or pond, locating a contractor to perform the work will take more than selecting the cheapest bid. Lakes and ponds are easy to maintain only if they have been built properly. Checking references and ensuring a contractor has several years of experience--especially locally--are critical. A contractor should have knowledge of several key issues, such as running a dewatering pump continuously while digging to deplete natural water. And once the desired depth is reached, a contractor should be familiar with the proper elevation as well as the sloping of the sides of a lake or pond. Drainage and average yearly rainfall levels also should be considered for the size of the area. An improperly constructed lake or pond may develop drainage problems and pest-control issues.
Preventative Maintenance
Once water begins to fill a pond, pest control, fish and water maintenance, aeration and stocking are essential to maintaining water clarity. A stagnant, dirty pond or lake is something patrons will certainly complain about. The key to maintenance is never falling behind; it is easier to overcome problems as they arise.