Just two weeks after installation, the pond has cleared up nicely. Just a slight greenish tint is evident - this small amount of algae is normal, and indicates a healthy ecosystem. Beneficial bacteria was added to the pond daily for the first two weeks and may be added weekly throughout the season.

The new water feature has blended well with our existing landscape. We were able to save the existing native plants to the left of the waterfalls. On the right side we built a "retaining wall" of large boulders to stabilize the berm. We placed landscape fabric under this to eliminate much weeding.

Looking down from the top of the falls...

We landscaped around much of the perimeter and on the berm, using Ribbon Grass, Blue Oat Grass, Blue Fescue, Hardy Geranium (Cranesbill), European Cranberry, Red-twig Dogwood, Anthony Waterer Spirea, Hostas and Dragon's Blood Sedum.

These young fantail goldfish are extremely entertaining! After getting used to their new environment, they've become quite playful. Mature size will be around nine inches. We started with just six fish to limit the nutrient loading of the new ecosystem. There are now numerous "baby" fish, ranging in size from 1/2 to two inches.

I had thought of adding a waterfall sound to this page, but none of the files I found came close to the calming music of falling water...you have to hear it in person to appreciate it. Spending time by the pond has become a very relaxing daily ritual for us.