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| We offer a Koi Rescue Service. |
A beginners guide to pond building: Stan Ranson Scientific theories concerning pond building are numerous and no doubt have their place in the overall scheme of things. In the real world of this type construction, it is necessary that certain guidelines be followed, even though they are never included in these dissertations. While not remotely termed scientific, the following suggestions must be considered prior to undertaking a project of this magnitude. 1. Twice the amount of room originally estimated for the pond. Note: this allows for the second and third modification of the pond without removing the guest bedroom. 2. A cooperative spouse, who if not already a masseuse, is prepared to take a course in same. 3. A set of plans written in pencil or erasable ink. The finished product will only resemble the title. 4. A concrete pond requires a set of collapsible forms. If not collapsible at the start, don’t worry, they will cooperate when the cement is poured. 5. A selection of leak remedies. Don’t count on the little “Dutch Boy” who plugged the dyke with his finger, he is busy on someone else’s pond. 6. Two sizes of plastic pipe and fittings. The smaller is installed first with the larger comprising one of the earlier modifications. 7. At least two plastic ponds to store the Koi you have purchased in anticipation of the first three estimated completion dates. 8. A 1-hp to 1.5-hp pump. The cost of moving water must be appreciated initially. A later move to a lower horse power pump can make you the savior of a bank overdraft to pay the electric bill. 9. A location for the dirt removed from the hole. Raising the rest of the yard by three feet does not insure friendly relationships with neighbors during the rainy season. 10. Last but by no means least, the right attitude regarding criticism from fellow club members when the project is complete. Remember the rules and you can always tell them you have made provisions for it. Technical terms: A few technical terms are included in this treatise to help you show your Professionalism in this fine art.:: Filter: A means of returning unwanted items such as algae to the pond. Plastic Pipe: An easy sanitary method of transporting water. It will always leak at a point 4 to 6 feet under an ornamental part of the landscaping. Green Water: A normal color for Koi Ponds when visitors are expected. 1. Use many aquatic plants to shade your pond and reduce nutrient loads in the water. 2. Use biological treatments (enzymes and bacteria and give them time to work. 3. The Best pond is a balanced pond. One of the most interesting and challenging aspects of Koi and pond keeping is establishing and maintaining a balanced aquatic ecosystem. Since an ecosystem is a dynamic living group of organisms, our job is usually a matter of fine tuning or maintaining the balance, removing overgrown or unwanted plant material or adding water. Mud Pond: A color development of a Koi pond when the green gets boring. Pea Soup: An advanced development of green water. Not recommended as an inclusion on the lunch menu. Shovel: A torture item left over from the Spanish inquisition. Doan’s Pills: An extension of the shovel. Landscaping: An excellent method employed to cover up mistakes in the building of the pond. |
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