Creating Natural Ponds Helps The Environment

Wild ponds are full of high activity. All types of species are drawn to them from dragonflies and pond skaters, to frogs, turtles and sometimes even the occasional fox. Natural ponds are some of the most important aspects of the conservation of our wildlife, both animal and plant. Wild ponds are disappearing at a truly alarming rate and as they disappear forever they are taking the animals and plants that depend on them for their survival with them. Animals are having to turn to other man made watering holes but unfortunately, these watering holes are just not safe for the animals.

These watering holes may be sewage ditches or chemical dumps. The animals drink from these contaminated sources and end up poisoned. There are also 1000's of pond life killed instantly when their pond is filled in to make way for a new road or building because its "uneconomical" to go round the pond or build a bridge over it.

Because these wild ponds are disappearing many pond keepers now consider building a natural pond in their garden. More than ever, this type of pond attracts wildlife in abundance simply because the animals are running out of places to go. These mini oasis give pond keepers hours of enjoyment and fun as well as a feeling of well being.

The Design And Maintenance

Even a small natural pond will be valuable to wildlife but you should build as large as you can. If possible it should be sited in a spot that receives plenty of sun but also has some shade. It should have a sloping bottom so their are variations in depth and it should be irregular in shape. You should protect the pond liner with a good layer of sand both under it and on the top. You can fill your pond with tap water as it will soon clear naturally. Plants will soon start to grow but remove weeds. The pond should be 70% clear.

It will also be necessary to periodically clean the pond by removing any dead leaves or unwanted plants but do not clear out in the first few months of the year because that is the time that amphibians and invertebrates are breeding and their eggs could be attached to the weeds. Always leave removed weeds and leaves spread out along the edge of the pond to allow for any creatures to escape that may have been accidentally removed from the natural pond.

When you choose plants for your pond, stick with types that are naturally from your area. The wildlife will be much happier with surroundings they know and you will be much happier because the plants are much less likely to die. Resist any temptation when at the garden center to purchase any type of ornament for your pond. Remember your goal, it should look like it has been there long before you arrived. Natural ponds will bring you enjoyment like no other pond. The fact you have been environmentally responsible is just an added bonus!

Kipp Flynn has been building ponds for ever. He was using terms like environmental way before they were popular. Click to learn more about natural ponds or here for general build a pond information
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