Is there a consensus on a gravel lined bed? It seems gravel has some pluses and some minuses. Can it be added later w/ out any
adverse affects to the water? I just want to make sure I have all my ducks in a row.
Thanks for the advice on rainwater. I think i'll just pay the money for cleaner water and use tap.
How expensive of a hobby is this? The guy I talked to said its expensive. I can understand all the initial costs w/ equipment and flora/fauna but
is it expensive to maintain?
My pond is 4' x 10' and averages 2' to 3' ft w/ the plant ledges. I've heard that its a good idea to have 2 - 3 trapdoor snails per sq. ftl.
According to my calcs the pond is 600 gallons and roughly 130 sq. ft. area under water.2 hundred snails snails seems like a lot.
I'd also like somewhat clear water. Do most of you have a UV filter or does the stuff you add to water do alright?
I use rainwater with no issues, we are out in rural maryland. Have been using it for the last 2.5 years.
I don't add anything to my water or use a uv, but a lot do use the uv for green water algae.
The hobby is not that expensive, unless you buy a lot of the additives that some use.
I would not put gravel on the bottom of the pond, makes it harder to keep clean
One more question for now....
Are small ponds typically grounded/ bonded? I know inspectors ask to see bonding details for swimming pools.
That might depend on your area's codes, mine is not grounded or bonded. Pools have different rules than ponds.
