How to make a big pond Do-it-yourself pond in the country

Any landowner would like to have a reservoir on his plot. A small pond creates a special microclimate, serves as a source of watering, collects excess water from the site, and finally becomes a place of rest and relaxation. Avid anglers will be happy to dig a pond for breeding fish in it, especially since it is not technically difficult, although it requires a lot of work. Such an event must be taken with all responsibility, because the pond created by you will need constant care, without which all its virtues will quickly dry out and it will become swampy and dry.

Ponds for breeding fish are:

• nursery;
• wintering;
• feeding;
• spawning.

There are ponds with artificial and natural bed (bottom).

Ponds with an artificial bottom are reservoirs built in areas with sandy soil that does not hold water well. In such a situation, after digging the pit, it is necessary to waterproof it, and then form an earthen bottom cushion. More often, ponds are made with a monolithic or prefabricated reinforced concrete bottom.

Ponds with a natural bottom usually do not need additional manipulations with the arrangement: for their construction, it is enough to dig a pit and strengthen the slopes. This option is possible on soil with loamy, clayey and sandy loamy soils that conduct little water.

The simplest type of pond for breeding fish with a natural bottom is digging.

A suitable fold of the terrain is selected and expanded, or a foundation pit is dug under the pond. The excavated soil is used to fill a dam or dam to collect precipitation and melt water.

At close proximity groundwater, within 2-3 meters, the digging is additionally equipped with a special catchment trench (it is also called a "castle"). It prevents water leakage from the pond.

When constructing ponds in floodplains, old and dry riverbeds and streams, two dams are built, thereby filling the reservoir.

When constructing ponds with an artificial bed, preference is given to channel or bunded ones. Such a pond for breeding fish can be made with a spillway.

The pit is dug out one or two meters larger than the one declared in the project, which is being developed before the construction of the fish pond. A clay layer is laid along the bottom and compacted, or a waterproofing film is used. A formwork is being constructed and a reinforcing mesh with cells of 30 * 30 cm is laid. At this stage, the drain pipes are fixed. The entire "pie" is filled with concrete. After that, the soil layer of the pond is arranged. Also approach the choice of soil responsibly: when breeding carp, it is worth making it denser, as it likes to dig the bottom in search of food, making the water cloudy.

Before pouring, the artificial reservoir is kept for two to three weeks and washed several times (up to five times), leaving the water for two days. After that, you can plant plants, fill the pond with water and start the fish.

photo of fish ponds

How to plan a pond and choose a place

To create a do-it-yourself fish pond, you must follow some conditions through which you can achieve the best results.

You can build a natural reservoir if there are natural depressions on the site (ravines, stream beds, including dry ones), lowlands and places near rivers are also suitable. If all of the above is not there, then it does not matter: you can always dig a pond.

When planning the location of the pond, keep in mind that it should be well lit in the morning - up to 11 hours. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., it is better to place it in the shade or partial shade, because in warm water algae multiply faster, and fish can suffer from a lack of oxygen.

Calculate the size of the fish pond depending on total area your site, as well as your personal goals. So, for amateur fishing, a lake with a water surface diameter of 5-10 m is suitable, but for breeding fish in industrial scale use much larger lakes - up to 200 meters in diameter.

The most important thing when building a pond is the availability of the necessary land area and a source of water (a stream flowing nearby, close groundwater, an artesian well).

Water must undergo a series of preliminary tests to determine its suitability for breeding fish in it. They can be made in the sanitary and epidemiological services or laboratories of fish farms. It should not contain harmful chemicals (such as methanol, bleach, etc.), duckweed and other contaminants.

The water supply is arranged depending on the type of water supply chosen: through pipes or channels by gravity using slopes or a pump. A good option would be to place the pond in the center of the drainage system of the site.

The pond should not be too far from the house, but not quite close either - this indicator should be calculated based on the functions included in the device of the reservoir.

Before construction, it is necessary to examine the soil on land plot allocated under the reservoir, on its ability to conduct water. This analysis is carried out in this way: soil samples are collected from the entire surface of the site on which the pond is planned, then placed in containers and filled with water. After that, the mixture is shaken and settled, and according to the ratio of sand and clay, conclusions are drawn about the water resistance of the soil. If the proportion of clay or loam in the sample is 30% or more, then this soil will serve as a good bottom for the pond. Such indicators should be on the entire surface of the future bottom, otherwise it will be necessary to build artificial waterproofing, strengthen slopes and build dams. Another aspect of this study is the examination of the thickness of the clay layer and its proximity to the surface. The layer thickness should be at least half a meter, and the occurrence should be as close to the surface as possible.

Clay, as a natural waterproofing agent, is very good for arranging the bottom of a reservoir. For these purposes, you can use clay produced industrially. Such a natural material will help prevent water leaks, balance temperature and nutrients in the pond.

The only thing to do when using industrial clay is to compact it when laying on the bottom.

fish pond diagram

Tips for setting up and using a fish pond

Ornamental ponds differ from fish ponds in terms of requirements not only for their design, but also for the structure of the bottom and placement. Fish ponds are often not distinguished by sophistication of decoration, their main role is to create comfortable conditions for growing and catching fish.

1. To avoid overflowing the reservoir, take care of the construction of a drainage channel, which is arranged on the gently sloping bank of the pond. Its bottom should be at the level of the normal water level in the pond, and its width should be on average 0.5 m. The slopes are reinforced with turf, rubble, and sometimes covered with concrete slabs (depending on the size of the reservoir).
2. A pit for a pond is dug with a maximum depth of 3 meters, which is optimal for both wintering fish and bathing people. In addition, the most comfortable water temperature for fish is maintained at this depth.
3. In a fish pond, there is no need to arrange a multi-level bottom, as in a decorative one, but a third of its area should be a shoal, with a depth of 0.5 meters to 1.5 meters. Its function is to provide a pond with a place for feeding and spawning of fish.
4. Gentle shores are a priority, but if it is not possible, then try to make at least one such. The presence of banks of different flatness is useful for the diverse world of aquatic plants and for fish and its catching.
5. When building a fish pond, give preference to types with the ability to drain the water. To do this, make a recess in the center of the bottom. It will also serve to quickly catch fish.
6. Periodically (in the spring before the flood), clean the bottom of silt with a spillway. In natural ponds, you can pump out water with a pump, leaving a small amount of it at the bottom, and collect the silt with a shovel. Silt is a useful fertilizer for the land.
7. Along the entire perimeter of the reservoir, it is necessary to carry out work to remove old stumps and clean the banks.
8. The soil removed from the dig can be used to raise the banks. Fertile soil is removed from them and an embankment is made, on which the removed soil is returned.
9. In the event of a dry summer, try to keep the minimum water level in the pond below 1.5 meters.
10. The pond is better to make an irregular oval shape. For cages they prefer the right rectangular shape.

Dams and dikes

If there are suitable lowlands or ravines on the site, then the pond is built by expanding the existing recesses and constructing a dam or dam.

Principles for the use of dams and dikes

Dams are built to hold melt and sedimentary water and thus fill the pond with water. They are also arranged to block the beds of streams or small rivers to create a dam. Dams enclose the entire area of ​​the pond, its main function is the accumulation of precipitation and control over the water level.

In shape, these dams are made trapezoidal, and they are located in the narrowest part of the dam.

In order to protect and fill the ponds, these structures are built from soil, clay is best suited.

Construction of dams and dikes

Clay is used for the body of the dam, and sandy loam and loam are suitable for covering. The slopes of dams and dikes are reinforced with sod, gravel or concrete slabs. You can plant moisture-loving shrubs and plants on them. During the construction of dams on sandy soils, they are additionally waterproofed. The soil is backfilled in layers and compacted every 20 cm.

The height of the structures is at least a meter above the surface of the pond.

Given the strong settlement of dams in the first year after construction, it is made higher by 10-15 percent.

The ridge is arranged in the region of 4 meters, and at the dams it is narrower - within two meters.

Dam construction video

Spillways and weirs

Both structures, in fact, protect the reservoir from overfilling with water as a result of floods and excessive precipitation, and also serve to quickly release it from water for catching fish and conserving the pond for the winter.

Weirs - structures that divert excess water open way- by channels. These are fluctuations and fast currents. They are built in the form of wooden or concrete stairs and tray channels.

Spillways - they use closed pipes from reinforced concrete with socket connections. In fish farming, they are installed at the bottom of the pond, closing the entrance with a net.

How to make a pond with your own hands video

The contemplation of flowing water is soothing. Its measured murmur pacifies, bewitches, gives a feeling of calm. On a clear day, sun glare plays in clean, transparent droplets. At sunset, the heavy red sun draws a bright path on the smooth surface of the pond. Water gives coolness in the heat, refreshes, invigorates ...

We all remember fairy tales about the magical power of living water from childhood. According to astrologers, representatives of the signs of the water element especially need the healing power of water, so they are recommended to surround themselves with all kinds of water bodies. And it does not matter whether it will be a small home aquarium, a small fountain or a large picturesque pond. The main thing is the incomparable feeling of coziness and comfort emanating from the water.

Advice

All kinds of wooden flooring and bridges are also necessary attributes for the design of swimming pools as part of decorative reservoirs. In addition to the fact that they provide a convenient approach and descent to the water, it is very convenient to place the necessary equipment under them to ensure the water cycle in the system.

own sea

A large pond in a suburban area is a small sea. A sea of ​​pleasure and a sea of ​​responsibility. What will this pond be like - classic, symmetrical, with smooth edges and strict geometry of coastlines - or romantic, as close as possible to natural, natural outlines; whether it will be intended only for swimming or inhabited by fish is up to the owner of the pond, since the choice of design projects is great and will satisfy any, even the most demanding land owner.

Advice

Think carefully about what kind of body of water you want. The worst thing for a specialist is when they ask him: “Do something!”

Dmitry Vasiliev,
Technical Director
Master Fountain LLC

Modern technologies make it easy to make a pond, large and small, of any area and depth, durable and beautiful at the same time. If there is already a natural reservoir on the territory of the garden, you can give it the desired configuration, enlarge it, decorate the banks.

Dream come true

In order to competently approach the creation of your own reservoir, you should first read the special literature. Based on the information received, you will be able to choose the right materials needed to make your dream come true and make a pond on the site.
When creating a backyard mini-water area, three main aspects must be taken into account. The first is the design of the pond. It is necessary to carefully weigh and consider how the size and shape of the pond will be combined, whether its design will be in harmony with the surrounding landscape, whether it will suit the style, whether the landscape near the house will look holistic and beautiful.

The second, most significant, aspect is the location of the reservoir. If you want to make a large pond exclusively for swimming, then it should be located on the south side of the site so that the water in it is always well warmed up. On the north side, for protection from the wind, you can install a gazebo on the shore. If the pond is inhabited by fish, it is important to ensure that the water temperature is optimal for their life. Therefore, such a reservoir should not be exposed to solar radiation for more than 5 hours a day. You should inquire in advance about the temperature of the water suitable for the life of the fish you have chosen: some prefer cold water, others - a little warmed up.

Advice

When choosing the size of a waterproofing film, all possible circumstances should always be taken into account. Order a slightly larger film than required - under certain conditions, the soil at the base of the pond can settle, so a small margin will not hurt.

Dmitry Vasiliev,
technical director of LLC "Master-fontan"

What does it cost us to build a pond?

If you decide to make a pond in the garden, you need to create it on paper - sketch out a rough sketch of what we want to see on our site.

The current fashion for the shape of a reservoir is dominated by a departure from the classics, straight lines and clear boundaries. The last "squeak" is a mini-water area of ​​extravagant, irregular shape. This pond is unique unique - we can say with full confidence that there is no such reservoir and will not be anywhere else in the world. But sometimes a pond with a complex configuration does not fit well into the surrounding terrain, especially if the site has a strict design. In this case, the simplicity of the form will be rather a virtue.

The pond itself is already beautiful and bright, but there are many more different decorations, which can, by the way, carry both aesthetic and functional load. So during construction, you should also think about how additional elements you will decorate your pond afterwards. These can be various fences, decorative bridges (which will be very useful in a garden made in Japanese style) or hanging platforms.

Undersea world

When creating a deep bathing pond, a convenient entrance to the water should be provided. At least one of the descents should be gentle, but in general it is desirable that the bottom slope on all banks is no more than 45 °.

For aquatic inhabitants, several underwater terraces should be made - a shallow water zone, a platform for deep-water plants and the deepest place for fish.

If you have small children, then for their safety, you can simply reduce the water level in the pool bowl. Then, when the children grow up, the water level can be raised.

A matter of technology

Advice

In some cases, a geostatic mesh similar to a honeycomb is mounted on the top layer of the geotextile. Large pebbles or cobblestones can be placed in these "honeycombs" to create the effect of a rocky bottom. But such a grid is used only with "ISOBENT", and is usually not used in a standard construction scheme.

Landscape design company

If the bottom of the pit is reinforced with a film, then it is better to remove all sharp objects - stones, tree roots, etc. Work should begin on a warm sunny day, as the elasticity of the film increases with increasing temperature. Calculating its dimensions is simple: width \ length of the film \u003d width \ length of the proposed reservoir + doubled maximum depth + 1 meter in order to bend the film over the side and dig it into the ground for fixation. (After strengthening at the bottom, the edges of the film are wrapped over the sides and dug into the ground for several tens of centimeters. This allows you to securely fix the film and prevent it from falling into the pond ground water).

Before proceeding with work to ensure waterproofing, you need to find out what the level of groundwater is. If they lie fairly close to the surface of the earth, then an inlet valve will be required. This is a very important point, because if the groundwater level rises, they can ruin the pond by simply squeezing out part of the bottom.

This cup is not for tea

Further work on reinforcing the pond bowl can be done according to several schemes.
The first and, it should be noted, the most expensive method is concreting. This is the oldest and most reliable way to strengthen the bottom. The concreted bottom is not afraid of either groundwater or freezing - and will serve faithfully for more than one generation of owners.

Butyl rubber films for covering the bottom are also quite strong. They withstand temperatures up to? 35 ° C. Although on the market you can find such films produced different countries, experts in the creation of ponds recommend purchasing a product German manufacturer. Films from Germany are better in quality,
In addition, they are guaranteed to last at least 15 years.

PVC films have gained popularity due to their low cost and ease of use. They are from 0.5 to 1.0 cm thick. To create a pond personal plot most often, as a rule, a film with a thickness of 0.8 cm is used.

Today, PVC is being replaced by a more promising material, which among professionals is commonly called "EPDM-membrane". The material is capable of tenfold stretching without the threat of rupture. Sold in the form of panels and sheets standard sizes, which are glued in place with glue or heat seal tape.

The natural covering of the bottom of the pond - it couldn't be easier. Sand, gravel and flat stones are all that is needed in this case.

After making the bowl of the pond, it will be possible to slowly fill the pond with water. The jet should be spraying - this will help reduce the chlorine content in the water. But still, before planting plants and launching fish into the pond, a certain time must pass, during which fresh tap water should "breathe".

Two in one

Can be achieved harmonious combination swimming pool and decorative artificial reservoir. Such a "hybrid" among professionals is called a landscaped swimming pool. The main thing in the development of such a hydraulic structure is to solve the problems associated with contradictions in the rules for the construction of such reservoirs.

The mirror surface of an ornamental reservoir, beautifully designed coastlines, as well as the convenience of planting plants in shallow water are its main trump cards. But for swimming pools, the main issue is the depth and hygiene of the reservoir. The water purification system should be as close to natural as possible. This is the main difficulty in arranging a landscaped swimming pool. It is necessary to organize a water purification system as close as possible to natural. This can be achieved by forced circulation of water, when the water passes through the regeneration zone and returns to the swimming bowl purified, clarified and enriched with oxygen. And then in such a reservoir you can swim even if there are fish and plants in it.

The scheme for building a landscaped swimming pool can be as follows. First, markings are made on the ground with a curb plastic tape, which will later serve as the contour of the future reservoir. Then a foundation pit is dug out to the entire depth of the swimming bowl and a foundation is cast under the sides of the internal cavity of the reservoir. An EPDM membrane is used as a waterproofing material. A shock-absorbing layer of geotextile is laid on top, on which concrete blocks are installed from which the walls of the swimming bowl are arranged. Next, backfilling with soil of shallow regeneration zones is carried out. The final touch is the decoration of the surface of the bottom and walls of the pool with a waterproofing film that imitates natural material, say, pebbles.

Decor

A ready-made, waterproofed pond bowl can be skillfully decorated. One of the options for such an “internal” decoration is artificial stone, which is also concrete with the addition of plasticizers. This material is convenient in that in the process of hardening it can be given desired shape. Pond, decorated artificial stone, looks very impressive. Such a “lake” in a solid rock is an ideal addition to a rocky garden.

Multi-colored industrial glass mosaics and bright tiles on the bottom, especially in combination with colored pebbles on the shore, are an excellent design move for connoisseurs of a colorful and vibrant life. Suitable for lovers of natural beauty PVC film with stones glued on epoxy resin. Such a film is also indispensable for decorating steep slopes, which are quite difficult to decorate with ordinary natural material.

They will give a special chic to the reservoir various items"antique" associated with water or liquid in general - from ancient Greek amphoras to ancient jugs. And, of course, the indispensable elements of aqua design are phytodecor
and backlight.

And the water will always be clean!

Any body of water, even the smallest, needs timely cleaning. Garbage can be either mechanical, accidentally falling into the pond, or biological, arising from the vital activity of plants and fish. If a small reservoir can be cleaned manually, then a large one simply needs a special filter that purifies water from pollution. You can place it next to the bathing area so as not to disturb the aquatic inhabitants. And special covers for filters made in the form of large stones will help to disguise the treatment equipment.

If a lot of foliage gets into the water, you can install a skimmer. It collects fallen leaves and petals, forming a small funnel on the surface of the pond.

Water is the substance that gave rise to life on earth. Any pond - both large and small - is quickly populated by inhabitants who begin to live their lives, at their own rhythm and pace, but next to you. It's a whole microcosm small area, amazing and diverse. Give yourself the opportunity to live in harmony with this microcosm, observe or even communicate with its inhabitants, and then your own life will be filled with the harmony and wisdom of nature.

Modern technologies make it easy to build a pond of any size and depth, durable and beautiful at the same time. If there is already a natural reservoir on the territory of the garden, you can give it the desired configuration, enlarge it, decorate the banks.

Text: Snezhana Kholodova, Vladislav Chigazov
Consultants: Landscape Design Company, Master-Fontan LLC

"Landscape solutions" No. 3, 2008

Having your own pond on your site is not only one of the ways to create a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere in the country house, but also the opportunity to add an exclusive zest to landscape design. Do you think such a hydraulic structure is beyond your power? You are mistaken, we will tell you how to master the laying of a pond with your own hands, while spending a minimum of money and effort.

Location selection

A well-chosen place for the future pond is the key to its long-term operation and preservation of a presentable appearance.

Accounting for relief and soil

There are several important rules that will help you choose the right place for the structure:

1. Site openness. It is recommended to choose the most open place, free from trees, bushes and other plantings. The presence of plants nearby is undesirable for several reasons: the root system of trees will damage the walls of the reservoir, and the leaves, fruits or branches, falling into the water, will rot, which will cause the water to quickly deteriorate.
2. Terrain and soil. The best option is a site that remains wet for a long time after rain, because loamy or clay soil quickly prevents water from leaving. Placing a pond here will provide an opportunity to significantly save on waterproofing. An excellent place for a reservoir can serve as depressions or hollows formed naturally. And when the pond is located on a site with a high level of groundwater contact, it will be necessary to implement drainage systems.
3. Proximity to a water source. Such reservoirs should be carefully and regularly looked after: change the water, clean it from algae, therefore it is very important to provide for the presence of a water source nearby, which will significantly speed up and facilitate the process of filling the structure with new water.
4. The possibility of expanding the territory. If the size of the site allows, then the possibility of expanding the pond should be taken into account in advance: the creation of new decorative structures, the construction of a bridge, gazebos, etc.

Proper lighting

Sunlight plays a big role in choosing a place for future construction. It is very important to choose a moderately lit area, without direct sunlight. Constant exposure to the sun will dry out the water and promote the active reproduction of aquatic bacteria, the activation of the growth of green algae, and the formation of mud. On the other hand, a lack of sunlight will lead to inhibition of the growth of ornamental plants.

Important! You can build an artificial pond on soils of any kind. However, for some of them, the cost and time for construction will increase significantly.

Ideal is:

• the area over which the sun appears before 11:00 am and after 15:00;
• general illumination - no more than 6 hours a day;
• dimming of the pond - at least 40% at the peak of the sun.

Construction technologies

There are several technologies for constructing an artificial pond, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Having studied the features of each, you can make optimal choice for your area.

Film

The simplest, cheapest and universal way formation of a pond - by means of a special film. For its organization, 2 types of film are used:

After the selection of a suitable film is completed, construction work begins:

1. Carry out the marking of the site on which the pond will be located.
2. Dig a pit according to the dimensions of the structure.
3. Prepare the substrate. To do this, the walls and floor of the pit are well tamped, a layer of waterproofing is laid, which can be geotextile or PVC film, covered with sand and tamped again.
4. A film is laid on top of the sand layer. During this event, you may encounter some problems: firstly, due to an uneven surface, wrinkles may form on the film. This is quite normal, but it is better to try to make one large fold than many small ones. Secondly, it is not recommended to allow the tension of the material, since it can burst under the weight of water.
5. After laying the film, proceed to pouring water. The pond filled with water is left for several days, and then the protruding pieces of the film are carefully cut off.
6. The last step is to strengthen the "coast" line. Stone, pebbles, geomats, gratings are used as a reinforcing material.

• low cost of materials;
• simplicity and ease of implementation;
• the ability to create a design of any shape and size;
• rapid pace of creation of the pond;
• no need to turn to specialists, since even an inexperienced master can build a reservoir.

Did you know? Very often the bottom of the pond is lined with a film blue color, allegedly in the tone of water. In fact, the blue bottom does not exist in nature - it is dark or dark gray. It is this color that should be preferred.

When organizing a film-based pond, you need to remember that it will not be able to serve for a long time, and you need to be prepared for the fact that it will have to be repaired annually. The film is easily damaged, torn or cut when cleaning. In addition, the edges lying on the surface can melt under the influence of the sun.

One of the most durable, reliable and durable concrete pond is considered. Its construction proceeds in several stages:

1. They dig a pit, with a margin of 20–25 cm, which is necessary to strengthen the bottom.
2. Remove stones, remnants of roots and other objects from the pit.
3. The bottom is covered with crushed stone with a layer of 15 cm and rammed.
4. Starting from the center to the sides, a layer of waterproofing is laid.
5. Concrete is poured: the solution is kneaded, a reinforcing mesh is made, the mixture is poured. It is allowed to harden and at the end a layer of liquid glass is applied.

• strength and durability of the structure;
• the possibility of creating a reservoir of any shape;
• ease of maintenance;
• low cost of concrete solution.

However, building a concrete bowl is not as easy as it seems at first glance. It will take a lot of effort and time during work. Besides, concrete structure requires additional processing with frost-resistant agents and liquid glass.

The easiest to organize is a pond from a ready-made bowl. In hardware stores you can buy structures made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride.

Important! Ordinary concrete needs both internal and external waterproofing. There are grades of material that are not afraid of moisture, but they are very expensive and require special pouring technology. Because of this, the use of expensive concrete to create ponds is in most cases impractical.

Such artificial ponds are quite strong, frost-resistant. Their main advantages are considered to be:

• low weight of the structure;
• convenience and ease of installation;
• a fairly decent service life - up to 15 years;
• carelessness.

• small dimensions and the inability to expand the reservoir;
• high price for quality material;
• unnatural appearance.

You can also make an artificial reservoir from improvised means. For example, old cast iron bath can serve as an excellent form for the future reservoir. Such a pond has high strength to the effects of the sun, water, is quite durable and can last for many years.

The disadvantage of this design is an unnatural appearance, since the bathtub has an exclusively rectangular shape, as well as the large weight of the material, which may cause problems with its transportation to the site.
The form for the reservoir can also serve as an old car tire. Of course, there is no need to talk about a large pond here, but organizing an original interesting corner on your site is quite realistic. For its construction it is necessary:

• cut off the top of the tire;
• dig a hole, with a small margin around the perimeter;
• lay the tire and cover it with a film;
• fix the film, pour water into the pond.

Did you know? If ainto the reservoir plannedrun fish, then its depth should be at least 2 m, and for carp habitat - at least 2.5 m. It is this depth that allows the water not to freeze in winter.

The coastal zone of the reservoir can be decorated with stones, pebbles, various plants.

How to make a pond

To make a good, high-quality pond with your own hands, you should make a little effort, as well as spend your time and money. But the result is worth it, and the mini-reservoir will delight you and your family for many years.

The process of building a structure that will function all year round consists of the following stages:

1. Pit formation. One of the most important and at the same time difficult actions is digging a pit. On the rise of the pit, it is necessary to make several terraces: the largest one is at a depth of about 2 m, where the fish will live. Further, gradually rising, at a depth of 1 m and 0.5 m, respectively. It is necessary to ensure that the walls of the pit are not absolutely smooth, but are formed in the form of small steps, otherwise, after the film is covered, it it just "slips". After digging the pit, it is necessary to remove the topsoil by approximately 0.5 m in the coastal zone around the entire perimeter of the pond, forming a small gutter. Such an impromptu "side" must be made at a slight slope so that the water after precipitation does not flow into the reservoir, but remains in the gutter. Next, the walls and bottom should be carefully tamped: first, a wide board is used, then the walls and bottom of the pit are sprinkled with a thin layer of sand and tamped with their feet.
2. Structural reinforcement. To give the structure strength, you will need grade 500 cement, water and a regular watering can. The work is carried out according to the following algorithm: the steps of the pit and its bottom are abundantly watered with water from a watering can, then sprinkled with a rather dense layer of dry cement. When the cement is absorbed, a strong “crust” forms on the surface. Such manipulations are carried out over the entire area of ​​​​the pit. Upon completion, it is necessary to leave the pond to solidify for 1 day so that the cement grabs.
3. Laying a draft and finishing film. At the very bottom of the pit (where the terrace is 2 m deep), a film is laid, or an old inflatable pool can be used as a material. The bottom is covered with a pool or film and fixed to the ground with metal brackets (the brackets can be made independently by bending the rod with the letter P). Next, with the help of a draft film, the entire territory of the pit should be lined. In order for the film to hold and not move out, it is fixed on the ledges with stones or bricks. On top of the draft, it is necessary to lay the finishing film in the same way, fixing all the ledges with small layers of stones. The finishing film has good wear resistance, frost resistance, and can last more than one year. After laying the film, you need to make sure that there is a sufficient margin of 20–30 cm along the entire edge of the bank, which is necessary for reliable fastening of the edges.
4. Pond decoration. The coastal part of the pond along the perimeter must be laid out with small wooden blanks (logs). It is advisable to “fit” each such blank to one size so that such an artificial fence has an aesthetic appearance. Also, the area between the wooden piles and the edges of the pond can be lined with natural stones. Next, the pond is filled with water and decorated at your discretion: plants, algae or reeds are planted, wooden snags are placed. If the pond will contain fish, then you need to add a little river water to it.

An artificial reservoir on a private plot can become a source of not only aesthetic, but also gastronomic pleasure. With some effort to breed fish, you can get a good help in providing yourself and your loved ones with a valuable fresh product. And if you approach the matter on a grand scale, then earn. After all, doing everything with your own hands in the country at home is not so difficult.

Types of fish are selected in accordance with the breeding conditions. The determining factors are air temperature and water composition. The type of pond is essential - flowing or stagnant. When selecting varieties, one should take into account the coexistence of breeds, competition for food. The most unpretentious and productive are:

• Carp or carp- heat-loving, but resistant to temperature fluctuations. The diet is vegetable food and mixed fodder. Enters puberty in 1-3 years, depending on temperature environment. Varieties - scaly, mirror and leathery.
• - a large relative of the carp. Reaches a weight of 50 kg or more. Motherland - Far East. eats a large number of vegetable food, used to clean overgrown ponds.
• black carp- similar to white, but feeds on molluscs. Scales of dark color. Well sanitizes ponds from pests of other species.
• White and motley carp- very similar up to 3 years of age. Then the motley appear spots on the scales. Reach 50 kg. The white carp feeds only on plants. Motley is more unpretentious.
• buffalo- looks like a carp, the birthplace of America. According to the growing conditions, it is similar to carp, but the meat is much more valuable in terms of taste.
• channel catfish- omnivorous, large, thermophilic. Motherland America. With proper feeding, it has a very pleasant taste of meat.

Less productive, but well amenable to breeding in a man-made pond, are:

Golden and silver carp are unpretentious, fast-growing. Can interbreed with other fish species. Gaining weight up to 5 kg. Feels good even with unfavorable composition of water.

also in artificial reservoirs Trout, pike, tench, sturgeon are bred.

Grass carp is a type of freshwater fish suitable for pond breeding.

Advantages and disadvantages of home fish farming

An important advantage of breeding in a homestead economy is the ability to obtain for personal consumption or sell all year round products in high demand.

Fish meat contains a lot of valuable substances and vitamins. Fresh catch has excellent taste.

The capital investment required to start fish farming is not very high. The complexity of cultivation is from 3 to 5 hours a day. Weather conditions when using an artificial reservoir slightly affect the growth of individuals.

The main investment occurs at the initial stage. It is necessary to build a pool or dig a pond.

Their type and size are determined by the financial capabilities of the owner and the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe site. The minimum depth of an artificial reservoir is 1-1.5 m. The volume is calculated from the estimated number of individuals settled in the pond. One fish 10-15 cm long should have at least 50 liters of water, i.e. in one cubic meter reservoir can peacefully coexist no more than 20 copies.

Types of breeding pools

The quality of the water in the mini pond, its chemical composition depend on the source of the pond filling. It also determines the temperature, the presence of food and the oxygen supply of the aquatic environment.

What type of filling the reservoir exists:

• Stream or river. Water in the reservoir comes from natural sources through the supply channel. The excess is removed by the outlet channel. The content of oxygen and plankton in a pond with such filling is favorable for breeding, because. closest to natural conditions.
• Spring. Clean water with a high oxygen content is most favorable for breeding fish. different breeds. For a source of food in the territory adjacent to the reservoir, daphnia pits are arranged - small small depressions for the reproduction of plankton. They communicate with the main body of water. Daphnia move to the pond and serve as food for fish.
• Atmospheric. In the absence of rivers, streams and springs, the source of moisture is rain and melt water. Well-heated water is favorable for the development of vegetation and living organisms.
• closed water supply. The use of ponds without external sources water was made possible through the use of special equipment: pumps, filters, ultraviolet sterilizers, etc. When constructing a reservoir, special attention should be paid to waterproofing the bottom.

How to make a pond with your own hands

Having decided to arrange a fish pond on the site, you need to determine its location, area and method of construction. If there are no natural sources of filling, the reservoir is built using a closed water supply.

How to choose the right site

The place for the pond must meet the conditions:

• be away from noisy places and highways,
• be shaded by trees, but not under them, because falling leaves pollute the water,
• not be located in a lowland, because there is a risk of contamination by runoff rainwater,
• have a source of electricity for water purification filter equipment and oxygen enrichment plants.

Necessary tools and materials

The most durable is a pond with a concrete bottom. Its device requires significant material and labor costs, which will pay off with interest in the process of long operation.

To build a pond you will need:

• rubble,
• sand,
• cement,
• grids of reinforcement with a diameter of 3-4 mm and a cell of 30x30 cm,
• board formwork,
• roofing material or other material for waterproofing the bottom and walls,
• tubes for inlet and outlet openings,
• waterproofing additive for plastering the bottom and walls.

The technology of creating an artificial reservoir in the country

1. Mark the size of the pond on the ground. For this, pegs and a cord are used. For fish breeding, the shape of the pond does not matter.
2. Digging a pit by hand or using an excavator. The optimal depth is 1.5-1.8 m, the angles of inclination of the walls are 20 °.
3. Before concreting, preparations are made from sand and gravel with tamping of the bottom.
4. Lay waterproofing from roofing felt or film with its output to the surface of the earth.
5. The first layer of concrete is poured to the bottom with a thickness of 10 cm, tamped and sunk reinforcing mesh all over the bottom.
6. The second layer of concrete is being poured.
7. Install the formwork for the walls of the pond. AT ready-made they should be 10-12 cm thick.
8. Reinforce and pour concrete walls of the reservoir.
9. Concrete surfaces are covered with plaster with a waterproofing additive or liquid glass. The wall treatment material must be safe for the life of fish.
10. Install the necessary equipment: pumps, filters, oxygen water enrichers.

For a successful wintering of fish, a wintering well should be provided. It is arranged from asbestos-cement pipes with a diameter of 80 cm or ordinary reinforced concrete rings. In a well buried to the mark of 2.7 m, covered with a wooden shield, the fish will not freeze and will not die from a lack of oxygen.

Even a beginner can build a pond with his own hands. Fish farming will not take much time if the process of stocking, fattening and catching is established. Even if the purpose of fish farming is not to generate income, this activity will bring benefits and pleasure.

DIY Fish Pond: 4 Ways to Build a Pond with Instructions + 5 Benefits of Film Insulation + 9 Pond Construction Tips.

Starting your own business can be very difficult.

Some ideas are very profitable, but only in the long run. And how to make money drip to you in a couple of months?

The fish pond will be one of the the best options , what . Today we will analyze how you can make this idea a reality.

Detailed instructions and tips on arranging a pond for fish breeding will allow you to build the main component of your business project within 3 to 10 days.

Popular Fish Pond Destinations

In Russia, fisheries are located on high level since ancient times.

Strong competition from foreign producers has forced large companies supplying fish products out of the market. This event gave an impetus to the development of small businesses aimed at providing regions where importing fish from afar is not a financially feasible solution.

What are the directions in fish breeding:

• Pond cultivation.

  Suitable for most species that are bred on an industrial basis.

• .

  Suitable for river species such as pike, crucian carp, perch and others.

• cage fish farming.

  Requires placement on natural reservoirs, which is not always convenient.

• Homemade mini ponds.

  They have non-standard proportions in terms of structures.

Today we are considering the first direction - growing fish in a pond.

It is optimally suited for implementation and does not require large expenditures. The advantages include the high rate of payback of the reservoir.

Where to start building a fish pond?

At first glance, it may seem that there is nothing special here, and absolutely any site will do. But if you want the pond to serve you for a long time, you should pay attention to the generally accepted principles for the construction of such structures.

How to choose the best place to build a pond:

• Start construction on a hill, otherwise it may fall into the pond rainwater and drain the dirt.
• Near the place where the building will be located, there should not be shrubs and trees.

  Leaves that fall into the pond will provoke the process of decay, which will negatively affect the general condition of the reservoir.

• It is desirable to have an artificial shadow.

  It should not cover the entire area.

  The best would be a permanent location of about 30% of the space in the shade throughout the day.

• The soil is better to pick up without large stones or clay.

  The process of digging a hole for construction will be simplified many times over. But here it is at the discretion of the owner.

Pond depth for normal functioning must exceed 160 cm.

There should be no impurities at the bottom, but the vegetation in the finished pond will always be in place.

The location must be suitable not only for keeping animals. The fish must be able to go through its entire life cycle including spawning.

4 Ways to Build a Fish Pond

Method 1. Fish pond without finishing.

The simplest in construction. It is only required to make a recess for the future reservoir and cover its walls with clay, mixed with turf.
But let's still consider the technology in more detail.

What materials will be required:

• bayonet and shovel;
• mixture - clay with turf;
• tubes for water supply / drainage;
• shovel for leveling the walls of the pond.

This is just an approximate list. If you are planning a large pond, digging can be done using large construction equipment.

Construction scheme:

1. Draw the boundaries of the future place for construction.
2. Dig indentations along the lined borders.
3. Lead channels from the pond to the place of water supply.
4. Place the tubes along the dug channels.
5. Combine clay with turf in a ratio of 50% to 50%.
6. Use water to get the right consistency. Make sure the mixture does not become too liquid.
7. Lay out the bottom and side walls of the recess with the resulting mixture.
8. Adjust the problem areas to the desired proportions and level everything with a spatula.

To carry out facing or not - it's up to you. The resulting pond is already a full-fledged reservoir where you can breed fish.

Method 2. How to build a fish pond with film decking?

What materials will be required:

• digging tools;
• pipes for drainage;
• film 0.5 - 1 mm thick, preferably black;
• pegs or stones.

The flexibility of this method lies in the ability to make borders of any irregular shape. The film will lie around the perimeter and, when filled with water, will acquire the outlines of the recess relief.

To build you will need:

1. Outline the boundaries of the future pond.
2. Dig a recess with an arbitrary relief of the walls.
3. Lay drainage channels.
4. Cover the recess with a film and make holes at the junction points of the water supply pipes and the pond space.
5. Fix the edges of the film with pegs or stones.

Experience in fisheries has shown that the best option for the insulation of the pond is polyethylene. For large spaces, a custom-made film with increased strength indicators is used.

What are the advantages of polyethylene waterproofing:

• low material cost;
• simplified installation procedure;
• after laying the pond is immediately ready for use;
• the material is very durable;
• easy to carry out repair work with material.

In addition, the film is non-toxic to fish and safe for aquatic vegetation.

On request, you can order a special waterproofing with increased strength.

Method 3. A fish pond using plastic.

Plastic frames are usually made to order. It will not be superfluous to think over how you want to see your reservoir, and discuss the points with experts.

The toolkit is not particularly different from the construction by other methods. The main component is a plastic frame, under which all other parameters should be adjusted during the construction of the pond.

Construction algorithm:

1. Take measurements of the frame, such as length, width, diameter.
2. Make markings on the ground according to the shape of the plastic frame, taking into account the dimensions.
3. Dig a hole, observing the shape and depth of the workpiece.
4. Make an allowance of 6-7 cm around the perimeter for further adjustments.
5. Place the mold and draw channels to accommodate the water supply pipes.
6. Connect the pipes and finally level the space around the perimeter of the structure, filling in the gaps between plastic mold and the coast.

The downside, perhaps, is the fixed size of the pond. If you have plans to expand a large business, this method of construction will not work.

Although the construction is durable compared to other options, the cost of plastic frames is quite high.

Method 4. Construction of a pond for breeding fish from a concrete mixture.

The result is a highly durable and high quality fish pond. Particularly serious is the choice of location and the procurement of materials for construction.

What materials will be required:

• digging tools;
• sand with fine gravel.
  It will be required to strengthen the base at the bottom in the presence of soft areas;
• tubes for collecting / draining water;
• waterproofing material.
  The ideal option would be a film with a thickness of 0.6 mm;
• cement with filler (sand or fine gravel);
• spatula for leveling the surface of the pond;
• containers for mixing components;
• reinforcing mesh;
• liquid.

The process of building a pond for breeding fish in this way is a phased one, and can take up to 1-2 weeks.

The technology should be strictly adhered to in order to avoid problems with the fish breeding pond in the future.

Algorithm for building a pond for breeding fish:

1. Using a pointed tool, draw the boundaries of the future reservoir.

   Choose the form of your choice.

2. Dig the 1st test layer along the perimeter of the borders by 1 bayonet.

   The bevel of the side walls should be no more than 25 degrees.

3. Dig water inlet and outlet channels for pipes.
4. Position the pipes inside the channel.
5. Dig a hole to the depth you need.
6. At the bottom, the soil should be compacted manually or using special tools.

   If the bottom is soft, it must be strengthened using sand and gravel.

   A layer of stones is covered with sand no more than 1-2 cm thick.

7. Cut the insulating film according to the shape of the bottom of the pond with a margin for the walls.

   Press the material well to the ground and fix it at the top with pegs or stones.

8. Mix concrete.

   For harvesting, use 1 part cement to 3 parts sand (the filler may be different).

   Mix everything thoroughly and add liquid to obtain the desired consistency.

9. Spread the resulting solution evenly on the surface of the waterproofing material with a thickness of not more than 1 cm.

   After application, allow the concrete to dry before proceeding with the next layer.

   Continue the process until the thickness concrete pavement will not become about 9-10 cm.

10. After 4-5 layers of concrete mixture, a reinforcing mesh should be laid.

    It will be a good support for your pond.

    Position the mesh along the sides of the bottom, and by pressing lightly, adjust it to fit the shape of the recess.

    Top with the next layer of concrete and let the mixture harden.

11. Locate the water inlet/outlet pipes in the channels.

    Adjust the joints of the holes between the walls and the pipe.

    Cover the gaps with concrete and level with a spatula.

12. Swipe cladding concrete mix using a spatula around the perimeter of the entire pond.

Minor nuances and errors can be resolved after filling the pond.

The construction is very strong and durable. If you wish, you can decorate the shores beautifully and, in addition to trading, start providing tourist fishing services.

All 4 methods of creating a reservoir for breeding fish with the proper level of perseverance and diligence are easy to implement.

Based on the size of the desired design, it is worth choosing the most rational ways to build a pond.

Arranging a fish pond

1) What equipment is needed for arranging a pond?

Have you filled the pond and want to start breeding fish?

Animals living in open water bodies have their own characteristics, which are displayed in living conditions. You should learn more about the type of fish you are going to breed and prepare for it. optimal conditions.

Indispensable in any pond will be gravity filter.

Mobile mounted device for filtering water in a pond when breeding fish. The price of such a mechanism is in the range of 4,000 - 6,000 rubles.

The next indispensable attribute of any place where aquatic animals are bred will be compressor. It will prevent the death of organisms by saturating the water with oxygen.

Well, the 3rd necessary element - ultraviolet sterilizer, which will not let the water bloom. For a price, count on 20,000 - 30,000 rubles, depending on the power and coverage area.

Other components for your pond depend on the species of fish you are going to breed. Information about each species can be obtained individually from specialists or by attending fish farming training seminars.

2) Water quality requirements for fish.

Foreign impurities such as bleach, methane and hydrogen sulfide must not be allowed to enter.

a. General requirements.

Water for fish should not have strongly pronounced odors and bright shades in the color scheme.

Farmers often add carbon dioxide to improve the condition of the liquid, but its excess can also harm the microflora. The maximum allowable value of carbon dioxide is 15 mg per 1 liter.

b. The reaction of water to pH.

There are 3 possible states of water in the pond - neutral (PH=7), acidic (PH 7).

The optimal value is within 5 - 7 points. To lower the level of acid in the liquid, the installation of special lime filters is required.

c. iron level.

When filling a fish pond with water, pay attention to the iron salt content.

When reacting with water, oxidation occurs with a high absorption of oxygen, which negatively affects the condition of the fish. With acid reactions, a brown coating settles on the gills, which interferes with respiratory processes and leads to death.

To prevent such situations, periodically aerate the water.

Plants are essential for a stable bioflora in a pond.

A list of acceptable representatives of the flora can be found in the table below:

Periodic analyzes for microbiological and mineral indicators of the state of water will help to track problems in time. Experts will give advice on how to correct the situation and improve the situation.

Our tips will help you properly build and design your pond.

9 tips for building a fish pond:

Do not exceed the water level in the pond.

The construction of a catchment canal will allow to keep this factor under control.

Its width can reach 70 cm, and its depth is not higher than the optimal value in the reservoir.

The side walls are at a slope of 20-30 degrees and are reinforced with materials of your choice.

The maximum depth of the pit should not exceed 3 meters.

These are optimal conditions for wintering and breeding fish.

About 30% of the area must be taken aground to a depth of 0.5-1 m.

This will allow the fish to spawn and make feeding easier for you.

Make at least one of the banks flat.

The procedure diversifies the flora and improves general condition pond.

Give priority to building a pond with the ability to divert water.


To simplify the process of fishing, make a small depression in the center of the pond below the level of the drain.

It is in it that the fish remaining after draining the water will be located.

A couple of times a year, clean the bottom of silt and other precipitation.

Silt is a very useful fertilizer for plants and another source of income for your business.

Clean the perimeter of the shore near the pond.

During the construction of the pond, the earth from the pit should be used to strengthen and form the banks.

The optimal geometric solution would be an oval pond design model.

If you are counting on collecting rainfall, then use a rectangular shape.

These tips will help you avoid common problems with pollution and the extinction of farmed fish in the pond.

Be careful about the type of fish you are going to breed. It is possible that special conditions will be required for their cultivation, which will entail the purchase of additional equipment.

How to build an eco-pond on the site with your own hands?

Detailed guide from practical example will inspire you and give you the answer to this question:

fish pond is a good source of regular income. Which method of building and breeding you choose is up to you.

The payback of the fish business is on average 3-7 months, depending on sales volumes.

Useful article? Don't miss out on new ones!
Enter your e-mail and receive new articles by mail