[stb]

Hi all,

We are in the midst of a complete backyard yard overhaul, as in everything but a single tree came out. The design is mostly finished, it's a small yard only about 60 feet long/30 feet deep. We are planning to put in a small pond for wildlife, next year, but I need to make sure I have the right place for it now before we put all the other plants in.

We put in a new driveway recently and all the dirt from there was put in the backyard so I could make mounds/berms. Right now it is piled in a back corner with a nice view from the house.

Is there any reason I shouldn't put the pond up on a small berm area? At the base of the berm is the path that leads through the rest of the yard and on the other side of it, as you get closer to the house (but still about 15 feet away) is the rain garden. The downspouts will flow into that (what doesn't go through the perforated pipes) and I figured any runoff from the small berm/pond area would also land there.

Am I thinking clearly or are there other things to consider?

Thank you.

[Malrex]

Without looking at your site, I would think that what you have planned is sound. Main thing with a pond is that you don't want to put it in the lowest area of your yard as it will collect runoff which will supply nutrients and create a mess.
As far as being next to a small berm, just make sure to compact it good and dig some nice shelves for your rocks (if you are going for the natural look).

[TheShrubber]

Place the pond in such a location that you'll view it often. A pond that's in some distant corner will get little maintenance and won't be enjoyed. I agree with Malrex, keep in away from runoff.

[Malrex]

TheShrubber has a really good point. Place the pond where you can view it often!! Also a little more advice...it always seems that when people are doing certain things, they seem a little hesitant and build things smaller. Some people say when getting a tattoo, always get it a little bit bigger than what you think you want....I believe the same goes for the pond. I've heard so many stories of people building ponds...and then a year later they are dinking around to make it bigger. Be bold, put it in a place you will view it alot, and maybe make it a little bit bigger than what you think, and I think you will enjoy it more.

[TheShrubber]

I've never met anyone who thought their pond was too big!