Colorado Springs Water Features: Outdoor Fountains, Ponds and More

Benefits of Installing a Backyard Pond

A backyard pond adds value and beauty to your Colorado Springs home. It not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates a natural and low-maintenance ecosystem.

Pond Plants

Pond plants play a vital role in the pond’s ecosystem. They add oxygen to the water, which helps keep it clean and clear. Some plants, like water lilies, offer shade and shelter for fish and other wildlife. If you have fish (like koi) it is essential that you have ways to protect them from predators like Great Blue Herons – and a diverse water garden plants can provide some of the protection that they need from birds, raccoons and other animals looking for a quick meal. Besides that, they prevent excessive algae growth and contribute to the overall beauty of your yard.

Pond Fish

Adding fish to your backyard pond is essential for a balanced ecosystem. Fish, such as koi and goldfish, can control insect populations in the pond and limit the growth of algae. Koi, in particular, can add a vibrant and colorful touch to your water feature. Fish in a koi pond help keep the water clean by eating debris, dead plant material, and even algae.

Other Pond Wildlife

A backyard pond in Colorado Springs attracts other wildlife, enhancing your yard’s natural beauty and promoting biodiversity. Birds, frogs, turtles, and dragonflies may find their home in your pond. Most of these species contribute to a balanced ecosystem while offering an opportunity for nature lovers to observe and enjoy wildlife up close. Of course some of these critters may pose a threat to your fish and you’ll want to keep an eye out for animals who will attempt to eat your fish.

How a Pond Works

Pond Pump for Waterfalls and Aeration

A pond pump is essential for keeping the water in your pond clean and clear. It circulates the water through a filtration system and to any water features, such as waterfalls and streams. This movement not only aerates the water, providing oxygen for fish and plants, but also creates the soothing noise of running water. A well-designed pond pump system helps maintain a healthy ecosystem in your Colorado Springs yard.

Pond Filtration

Filtration plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of water in a pond. A proper filtration system removes debris and harmful waste products from the water, ensuring a clean environment for fish and plants. There are two main types of pond filters: mechanical and biological.

Mechanical filters remove solid particles, while biological filters use beneficial bacteria to break down harmful substances. Combining both types of filters is key for a balanced, healthy pond in your Colorado Springs landscape.

How a Contractor Builds a Pond

Designing Your Backyard Pond

A skilled contractor starts with landscape design to plan the ideal pond or water feature for the Colorado Springs property. They work closely with you to understand your vision, preferences, and budget. This process often involves creating a 3D rendering to ensure the end result aligns with expectations.

Then, it is on to the actual pond construction…

Excavation to Make Room for a Pond

Once the design is finalized, the contractor moves on to  the first step of pond installation: excavation. They carefully dig out the area to create the right depth and shape for the pond. The pond must be deep enough to allow koi or other fish to get low enough in the pond to avoid the reach of predators – usually at least 3 or more feet deep at its lowest point. Proper excavation is crucial to accommodate all necessary components, such as pumps and filtration systems.

Large Koi Pond Construction in the UK – Those are Some Big Koi!

Installing a Liner or Underlayment

After excavation, the contractor installs a pond liner or underlayment to prevent water leakage. This step is essential in maintaining a healthy and stable pond environment throughout the seasons. Liners should be made of quality materials with high durability to ensure longevity and minimal maintenance.

Installing Plumbing, Pumps and Filtration

To guarantee prime functionality and water quality, contractors integrate plumbing systems, pumps, and filtration mechanisms. Your contractor should be able to guide you through any permitting process if it is required – which it very well may be if you’re running electricity out to the pond.

Adding Gravel, River Rock and Stone in and Around the Pond

For additional support and a natural appearance, contractors place gravel, river rocks, and stones in and around the pond. These materials also act as hiding spots for fish and other pond inhabitants, helping them feel at home in their new environment.

Small (fishless) Water Feature Construction Courtesy of Lowe’s

Adding Plants and Fish to the Pond

Finally, the contractor introduces plants and fish to the pond. Water feature contractors in Colorado Springs often provide guidance on suitable flora and fauna for the local climate. These elements contribute to the pond’s overall appearance and maintain a healthy, balanced ecosystem.

Waterfalls and Streams

Pond Waterfalls

Pond waterfalls add visual appeal and soothing sounds to any yard. They transform the water feature into a dynamic, lively space. By incorporating running water, they create a relaxing ambiance with the gentle noise of flowing water.

Their effect isn’t purely aesthetic. The added movement also helps aerate the water, promoting a healthier ecosystem for plants and fish.

Pondless Waterfalls

For those who want the beauty and sound of a waterfall without the maintenance of a pond, a pondless waterfall is an ideal choice. They provide the relaxing sound of running water without the need for a pond and the inevitable buildup of algae and debris.

Instead, the water flows over rocks and streams, disappearing into a hidden reservoir before being pumped back to the top. This design requires less space and maintenance than traditional pond waterfalls.

Outsourcing Pond Maintenance to a Contractor

Pond Cleaning

Regular cleaning is vital for a healthy pond. Contractors in Colorado Springs can help by removing debris, treating algae, and testing and treating the water for any issues. This keeps the pond looking its best and supports the well-being of its inhabitants.

Pump Maintenance, Repair, and Replacement

Pumps play a crucial role in maintaining water quality. Experts can inspect your pump for wear, repair any malfunctioning parts, or replace it entirely if necessary. Skilled professionals in Colorado Springs ensure the pump works efficiently, saving you time and money.

Filter Cleanings and Replacement

Clean filters mean clear water and less stress on your pump. Technicians can remove built-up debris and perform thorough cleanings or suggest new filters if needed. By outsourcing filter maintenance to a contractor, you can focus on enjoying your pond and its beauty.

Maintaining Proper Pond pH

A balanced pH scale is essential for the pond’s plants and animals. Colorado Springs contractors can regularly check the pH levels, make adjustments, and suggest proper treatments to maintain a healthy aquatic environment.

Leaks

Despite solid construction, a pond leak is a very real possibility, especially for older ponds and necessitates an expert to assist with pond repair.  Ponds in Colorado are bound to lose a significant amount of water due to evaporation – especially in the dry summer months.  If you notice that water is escaping your pond more quickly than due just to evaporation, it may be time to call in an expert pond contractor for help.

A pond contractor will take a systematic approach to validate that you do in fact have a leak. Pumps, pipes, and pond liners will all be inspected. They will then go through a series of steps to identify where the leak is.  They will then fix the leak by patching or sealing the area where water is escaping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should I Hire a Contractor for Pond Maintenance Instead of Doing it Myself?

Hiring a contractor in El Paso County for pond maintenance ensures the job gets done correctly and efficiently. They possess the expertise and tools needed for proper care. While a homeowner may opt to handle maintenance themselves, hiring a professional can save time and prevent potential issues, increasing the value and longevity of a water landscape feature in Colorado Springs.

What Plants are a Good fit for Ponds in Colorado Springs?

Selecting native plants is crucial for a healthy pond ecosystem in Colorado Springs. Hardy water lilies, water irises, cattails, and water lettuce are among the plants that thrive in the region. These plants contribute to water quality and provide habitat for fish and other pond life.

Can Proper Pond Design Minimize Algae Growth?

Yes, proper pond design plays a significant role in minimizing algae growth. Incorporating underwater plants, providing adequate water circulation, and incorporating shade elements into the design can naturally limit the proliferation of algae – believe it or not, direct sunlight is probably the biggest contributor to out of control algae. A balanced pond ecosystem with a mix of plants, fish, and clean water will reduce undesirable algae growth in the long run.

How Expensive are Koi?

Koi fish prices can vary greatly depending on factors like size, color, and lineage. Smaller and more common varieties can cost anywhere between $15 and $50, while larger or more rare specimens can reach up into the thousands.

How Can I Protect my Koi from Predators Like Herons and Raccoons?

Protecting koi from predators involves implementing a combination of pond design elements and deterrent strategies. Integrating hiding spots, such as underwater ledges, will offer safety for the fish. Pond netting and decoy predators such as fake herons can also be useful in deterring real threats.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Backyard Pond?

The cost of building a backyard pond in Colorado Springs can vary depending on size, materials, and features. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $1,000 and $5,000 or more for a professionally built pond. This cost covers excavation, materials, labor, and any additional features like waterfalls or filtration systems.