Hanging in the Balance the Precarious Artistry of Balancing Stones P.38

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Hanging in the Balance The precarious artistry of balancing stones p.38

A Pond's Patina p.15 Stop the Seepage! p.32 Conceal Your Filtration Equipment p.43 SCAN HERE AND REGISTER TODAY!!

FEBRUARY 24 - 26, 2016

CHARLES VANDER KOOI DAVID DUENSING President & Consultant at Star of Pool Masters on Vander Kooi & Associates Inc. Animal Planet

• Twenty-four seminars taught by the • Trade show featuring 25 of the leading industry experts industry's top manufacturers • Water feature build on 02/24/2015 • Network with other successful water • Show Special: take an extra 10-20% feature professionals off orders placed at the Expo REGISTER TODAY!! ADMISSION IS FREE!! . . INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS ONLY! 866 219 3561 OR WWW.WGEXPO.COM PONDTRADE TMTM Volume 21 | Issue 1 January/February 2016 Serving Professionals in the Pond and Water Feature Industry 24 Oh Baby, Baby! LANGUAGE OF KOI You don’t often think of koi lovers as gamblers, but it can be a bit of 19 a gamble to pick out new koi for your collection — especially when 32 they’re babies! Shane Stefek of Water Garden Gems walks you through the traits to look for when assessing Tosai, or young koi. Follow his steps to buy Tosai that will grow into award-winning adults! 28 Oh, Mama Mia! The best pond projects are catered to the needs of their wild inhabitants. So when the occupant of a project-in-progress is a Serval — a large cat native to sub-Saharan Africa — no cookie- cutter design will do! Aaron Burchett showcases the extra effort required to create a manmade home fit for a wild animal. 32 Stop the Seepage! So you’ve marked off your pond’s dimensions and dug a hole. Time to throw down some plastic and turn on the hose? Hardly. Picking the proper liner for your project is a vital step that’s dictated by a variety of factors. Paul Amos outlines the key details you must address to ensure that the water you put in your pond actually stays there!

38 Hanging in the Balance Tim Anderson is used to answering a lot of questions, and it only FEATURES takes one look at his artwork to understand why. His magnificent balanced stone creations defy explanation! Anderson reveals the DEPARTMENTS top three questions people ask him on his worksites and shares the 8 Uncharted Waters POND CONSTRUCTION secrets to making art that looks like magic. 6 Upcoming Events Multiple designers, discerning clients, massive budget and a theme unlike any 54 Trade News other: “Spice of Asia meets Tennessee Hills.” Easy build, right? Wrong. John 43 Hidden in Plain Sight 56 Marketplace Magyar shares the story of how his Universal Aquatics team navigated a Ah, the beauty of a naturalistic pond. Swimming fish, glistening rocks, 57 Advertisers’ Index variety of obstacles to bring a totally unique pond project to life. green plants — and white PVC pipe? Every pond needs a working filtration system, but that A Pond's Patina doesn’t mean you want to see or hear it! 15 Kent Wallace shares his techniques COLUMNS Are you eager to eliminate every ounce of film from your pond? Stop and read this for hiding filtration technology to keep 7 Publisher’s Perspective story! Biofilm, or “A Pond’s Patina,” is crucial to your ecosystem, and caring for it the functionality without seeing the is high on the list of your most important responsibilities. Jamie Beyer explains hardware. the importance of “APP” and why a healthy biofilm is the heart of proper pond management. 49 Cooking with Quickbooks 28 19 Swimming Ponds vs. Natural Swimming Pools Swimming in manmade bodies of water is not a new topic to our readership. Accounting is a necessary evil Indeed, many of you have written in to voice your love or dislike for the practice. for any pond business, but some The crucial question at the center of the debate: what, exactly, are we swimming companies handle it more efficiently in? Here, James Robyn of BioNova Natural Pools offers his perspective on than others. Are you neck-deep in 38 paperwork and unsure of your bottom the issue, highlighting and explaining the key terms that make all the difference. 24 line? Barbi Holdeman’s introduction to QuickBooks will help you get your numbers crunched, your employees paid and your business running as smoothly as your filters!

53 Winning Waterlilies Beautiful blossoms were in full bloom in October at the International Waterlily & Water Gardening Society’s annual New Waterlily Competition. Expert growers and hybridizers from around the world presented their award-winning submissions to Denver Botanic Gardens, all vying for the top prize: Best New Waterlily of 2015. Tamara 8 Kilbane’s synopsis and colorful photos are not to be missed!

4 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 5 Pond World Upcoming Events Publisher’s 2 016 August 2 - 4 TM Perspective Distributing, LLC January 6 - 8 SuperZoo 2016 MANTS Mandalay Bay Convention Center PONDTRADE Baltimore Convention Center Las Vegas, Nevada Paper or Plastic? Print or Digital? www.superzoo.org Baltimore, Maryland Staff www.mants.com August 2 - 4 ew year … same format. Call me old-fashioned, but POND Trade is diving into 2016 via the same platform January 11 - 13 IGC East Publisher Valley Forge Casino Resort we employed last year: bright, glossy paper and brilliantly CENTS Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921 King of Prussia, Pennsylvania N colored ink. Greater Columbus Convention Center [email protected] Columbus, Ohio www.igcshow.com Don’t get me wrong: POND www.centsmarketplace.com August 16 - 18 Editor Trade has a strong digital presence January 12 - 14 IGC Chicago Peter Celauro that puts our awesome content in Navy Pier Festival Hall Landscape Ontario [email protected] front of more visitors every month. Wholesale to the Trade Chicago, Illinois Toronto Congress Centre Each issue is available via the ISSUU www.igcshow.com • Quality Pond Products • Unbeatable Service Toronto, Canada Advertising Sales digital publishing platform and PDF, www.locongress.com • Highly Experienced Staff October 19 - 21 Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921 and analytics show that our reader- Superior product lines including: February 24 - 26 Hardscapes and GIE+EXPO [email protected] ship is growing by leaps and bounds. EasyPro • Alpine Corp. • Pondmaster • Aqua-One Kentucky Exposition Center Water Garden Expo The Internet is a key avenue for that Mars • Eco-Labs • Little Giant • BioSafe • Aqua Ultraviolet Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center Louisville, Kentucky Graphic Design growth. As our tech-savvy industry ShoKoi • Tsurumi Pumps • Crystal Clear Products Shawnee, Oklahoma www.hardscapena.com www.gie-expo.com Gelles Graphics writers have demonstrated, websites Order online at www.wgexpo.com [email protected] and apps are vital tools that can’t be www.PondWorldOnline.com March 5 - 6 November 2 - 4 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo ignored. 970-420-7277 Koi Club of San Diego Accounts Receivable 2715 East Mulberry • Fort Collins, CO 80524 Ernest N. Morial Convention Center 29th Annual Koi Show Lois Spano But there’s just something special about the printed page, isn’t there? Fax: 970-224-3664 New Orleans, Louisiana Del Mar Fairgrounds [email protected] The joy of opening the mailbox to find a shiny new issue inside. That Email: [email protected] www.poolspapatio.com Del Mar, California first taste of delicious eye-candy jumping off the cover. Leafing through www.koiclubofsandiego.org Web Editor beautiful paper pages is a visceral, authentic experience that no mouse March 27, 2015 • Pond World • Pond Trade Magazine 1/4 vertical (3.625” x 4.875”) Grant Gerke click can match. It’s an experience our readers enjoy … and demand! March 13 - 15 Are you attending an event that you think Central Florida Koi Show others should know about? Are you hosting [email protected] But don’t take my word for it; check out the numbers! When International Palms Resort an event and want more people to come? subscription requests come in via the website’s Subscribe button, the Send event info to [email protected]. Orlando, Florida Printer majority of people want either the print version or both print and digital. www.orlandokoishow.org Sutherland Printing When I have a booth at a trade show, approximately 80 percent of people Montezuma, Iowa want print only, while the other 20 percent want digital or a combination of both. So for now, we’ll keep sending our world-class stories and For your mind-blowing images to your (physical) mailbox. Moving? Let Us Know Speaking of mind-blowing images … how about that cover! We’re If you are moving, please update your address Free Subscription dedicated to bringing you fresh and exciting stories from the water with us so we can update our records. see our feature world, and Tim Anderson’s magnificent creations certainly fit Use the forms from the post office, or drop website www.pondtrademag.com the bill. Tim has spent the last few years honing a truly ephemeral art us an email at [email protected] form: stones precariously balanced atop one another! Turn to Page 38 to with your old and new contact information. or call 708/873-1921 see just how exciting a few rocks can be. Rocks are also a key part of Kent Wallace’s keys to concealing equipment. A well-designed filtration system is a vital part of any pond, but Contact Info that doesn’t mean you want to see it! On Page 43 Kent shares how to POND Trade Magazine, ISSN 1949-0585 is a trade POSTMASTER: Send address changes to POND Trade Magazine, POND Trade Magazine hide the technology to boost the naturalistic charm. Instead of going to school, millions of young publication of LG Publishing, Inc. Material is selected for its interest PO BOX 2721, Orland Park, IL 60462 P.O. Box 2721 © Lora Lee Gelles, 2016 Animal lovers will find plenty to love in this issue, both on land to the koi, water feature and pond industries, and the publishers accept Orland Park, IL 60462 children must walk for miles, no responsibility for the accuracy of content. Reproduction and underwater. Aaron Burchett highlights the unique requirements of a Advertising Policies: LG Publishing, Inc. reserves the right to refuse to 708/873-1921 • FAX 760/418-4606 just to gather water for their families. rights by written permission only. publish any ad. Submission of an ad to LG Publishing does not constitute a pond built for a wild animal — an African serval, to be exact — on Page [email protected] Give these children hope! commitment by LG Publishing, Inc. to publish it. Publication of an ad does not 28. And you’ll find some adorable baby pictures no koi lover could resist POND Trade Magazine is published bi-monthly, starting in January, constitute an agreement for continued publication. LG Publishing, Inc. will not be for $41.70 per year by LG Publishing, Inc., POND Trade Magazine, liable for failure to publish an ad as requested or for more than one incorrect in Shane Stefek’s story on Tosai on Page 24. PO BOX 2721, Orland Park, IL 60462. Qualified applicants may insertion of an ad. In the event of an error or omission in printing or publication Whether in pixels or on paper, the POND Trade mission remains subscribe at no cost at www.pondtrademag.com. Postage is paid at of an ad, LG Publishing, Inc.’s liability shall be limited to an adjustment for www.pondtrademag.com the cost of the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being the same: bringing you the best information, ideas and images about this Orland Park, IL and additional offices. For new subscriptions, additional cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the Visit www.PondsForPeace.org copies and address changes, please call 708/873-1921 or email correct advertisement. Under no circumstances shall LG Publishing be liable for wet and wonderful industry we all love so much. [email protected]. consequential damages of any kind. Happy PONDering! and do something amazing!

6 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 7 Pond Construction

A splash of Asia in Atlanta. Creating a zen-like experience with both formal and natural elements. Uncharted Spice of Asia meets Tennessee Hills Waters in Atlanta by John Magyar, Universal Aquatics

t’s not every day that Universal Aquatics of Atlanta, Georgia gets an opportunity to create something we have never created before.I “Asian spice meets the Tennessee Hills with a mix of formal simplicity and a touch of rustic flair, in a nutshell” is what our team was tasked with developing and constructing. In April of 2015, we were approached by a local contractor with the possibility of designing and building a one-of-a-kind water feature in an exclusive neighborhood in Atlanta. After speaking with the contractor on the phone, we were eager to view the property and jumped at the chance to get on board. When we arrived to view the property, we were surprised to see that the plan for the new water feature was already designed — on paper, that is. The only downside to this was that it was on paper. It was simply a concept designed by an architect. As the meeting continued, we discovered that there were many parties involved in the design process and that each and every one of them had a slightly different vision of where they wanted to go with the project. The original design for the project consisted of a 32-foot waterfall with massive boulders that fed into a large bog filtration pond. From the bog, the water would spill through a retaining wall into a pond that measured 20

8 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 9 by 22 feet in diameter with an approxi- rienced taking on a project of this magni- Bringing the Plan to Life rear of the home. for the drop proved an extremely challeng- stone out of the main waterfall stone in mate depth of 2 feet. The plan for the new tude before. As it turned out, the client Formal coping was desired for the ing method to disguise. We thought that order to channel the water toward the We eventually ended up constructing water feature was also accompanied by a pond border instead of the boulder edge perhaps we could run the liner on top of middle, attempting to tame the immense wasn’t just having a new pond installed; a bog pond, which was 10 by 12 feet and treatment that is traditionally installed. the main stone drop and place a thin stone water flow. That was the first time that our large laundry list of must-haves, to-dos they were having the entire backyard, as spilled over a retaining wall with a sheer and general thoughts and ideas, as well as well as part of their house, designed and The client stated, “We want something veneer on top of the main stone, sandwich- team had ever attempted such a task. We descent stone drop; a 25-foot-long waterfall different. We don’t want what we see on also cut a channel on the underside of the a detailed list of what the filtration should remodeled. The total plan for the shotgun- that spilled into the bog; and a 20-by-32- consist of. There were also several pages of style backyard consisted of a large pavilion everybody else’s pond. We want a stone, approximately two inches behind by-3-foot pond — in that order. Yes, the design that incorporates both the water’s edge, in order to aid printed photos of potential ideas for the with a retaining wall patio front, several - system was completely constructed back formal and rustic features.” in the elimination of water wards from how it would have normally A 10-inch-thick founda- wicking back behind the been installed. A retaining wall had to Every aspect of the design had to be installed tion of concrete had to wall. Fast forward two first be constructed by another contrac- with laserlike precision and accuracy. Even the be poured in order for days and voilà: waterfall tor in order to begin construction on the Planting accents add the coping stones to stone drop complete. waterfall filter was a bit more precisely positioned bog and waterfall. Due to limited machine a touch of color to be properly secured, the feature. And the best part is because it was going to be hidden underneath a access and projects yet to be completed but the end result was that it worked without by other contractors, we couldn’t begin bridge in the middle of a landscape pathway that amazing. the need for adhesives working on the actual pond itself until that need to be replaced led to the pavilion. last. Several spray jets were also installed on Stone Spillway over time. this project to ensure that adequate water flow was achieved. Several fish caves were The stone spillway that Too Many Cooks new design. All of these items were given more retaining walls peppered around the incorporated in the main pond area as well connected the bog pond and the main to my team to navigate through, ultimately property, landscape walkways, landscape in order for the fish to be better protected pond was designed to showcase the retain- One of the biggest challenges that my ing the liner between the two. This seemed leading us to the desired end result. We lighting and landscape plants installed to from predators. ing wall that it spilled through. But how team and I faced on a daily basis was trying promising, but the homeowner wanted a also had to swim through the thoughts of finish off the design. Every aspect of the design had to be does one create the desired effect while to coordinate with all of the decision- the lead designer as well as other contrac- Some of the items that were on the installed with laserlike precision and accu- keeping the pond leak-free? It wasn’t an cleaner look. OK, now what? The team makers on the build. Daily changes seemed tors on-site, which made the design a bit radar for the project included formal racy. Even the waterfall filter was a bit easy task. Idea after idea was explored brainstormed, and we eventually came up to be the norm. “I don’t like this, I want more challenging. stainless steel spillways through retaining more precisely positioned because it was before finalizing a plan. Of course, that with a plan. this instead,” et cetera. The entire back- walls, sheer drops over flagstone cemented going to be hidden underneath a bridge plan changed countless times before We decided to cut and grind out a yard was a construction zone, but it looked A Project of Greater walls, basalt column fountains and steel- in the middle of a landscape pathway that coming to fruition, and even after that the part of the already-constructed retaining more like a war zone. And with limited Magnitude sheet-faced retaining walls cut around led to the pavilion. The water feature plan changed a couple of times as well. wall in order to lower the waterfall drop access for machines, supplies and workers, The homeowners had a pond in the surrounding boulders, as well as formal itself not only had to be placed where it There wasn’t a way to run the liner stone, while adding more cap stones on it was definitely a logistical challenge. We past, so they were familiar with the basics coping capstone borders surrounding the could be enjoyed from the main sitting behind the existing wall, and simply top of the space in order to bridge the also had to wait until certain parts of the of pond ownership, but they hadn’t expe- main pond. areas, but also from every aspect of the running the liner under the waterfall stone gap. We also ground a quarter-inch of project that weren’t pond-related were

Boulder edge Formal coping borders treatments complete the define the pond's edge. look of the waterfall.

Bog filtration keeps the water crystal clear.

10 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 11 completed before we were able to complete WholesaleWaterlilies.com certain phases of our part of the build. Plans Change … and Change Again Shop Early for Limited Specialty Plants from Around the World So what do you do when there isn’t a Extensive Collection of Aquatic Plants budget and the clients have endless ideas of what the final result could be? You try, Expert Knowledge Resource try, try to stay focused while leading them Planting Supplies to Do the Job Right to what you know will work best for their space. That can be an extremely challenging Growers Nationwide to Meet Your Needs task when money is not a concern. It’s every pond builder’s dream to have complete, 100-percent design control over a project. However, this isn’t always the case, especially when constructing The desired look: Asian serenity with rustic charm. large projects where there atmosphere by way of the Tennessee Hills makers in the equation. In this business, are many decision-makers up and landed in the middle of Georgia. the design of a pond is the foundation in the equation. That’s what we accomplished, and the upon which the beauty of the feature is homeowners couldn’t be happier. Despite developed; therefore, the process of creat- the fact that they didn’t quite know what ing the initial water feature design needs The project eventually evolved and they wanted, often didn’t like what they to be very clear and understandable. found its own identity as it began to take saw (more often than on any other project However, when there are multiple stake- shape. My team and I didn’t exactly know we have completed thus far), and changed holders involved, and input is provided how the project was going to turn out until their minds every other day (or so it from many different areas, solidify- the very last day, when we received the seemed), we managed to create a spectacu- ing and developing that foundation can thumbs-up that the project was complete. lar, one-of-a-kind masterpiece that can be become cumbersome, especially in large- I estimated that the project was going to admired and enjoyed for years to come. scale projects. When multiple sources of take a week and a half to complete, but it It’s every pond builder’s dream to have design input are provided, not only is time ended up taking five weeks. complete, 100-percent design control over impacted, but resources and manpower The new pond owners knew what they a project. However, this isn’t always the can also be potentially wasted. Despite all wanted in theory, but they didn’t exactly case, especially when constructing large this, we were able to create a truly unique know what that actually looked like most of projects where there are many decision- work of art. a the time. So, we were left creating something from nothing, with lots of guidance regarding what they didn’t like when they saw it. Pictures of what my team envisioned for About the Author the waterfall were met with many questions and eventual changes as well. Not a single John Magyar, owner of Universal Aquatics LLC in Atlanta, is a aspect of the feature was left untouched biologist with over 15 years of experience in pond design and Lotus Season installation and maintenance of koi ponds, pondless waterfalls, water by the time the feature was completed. Although there were many design changes gardens and water fountains. His expertise stems from years of work in the zoo and public aquarium industry throughout the United States. He takes a fish-first during the build, we couldn’t have hit a Over 100 Lotus Varieties for Early Buyers, approach when it comes to designing and building ponds and other water feature systems. bigger home run with everyone involved John has worked as a biologist at the Georgia Aquarium, the San Antonio Zoo and the in the project. They loved it. 10 NEW Waterlilies, Flint RiverQuarium in Albany, Georgia. Working at public aquariums gave him a chance to care for exotic animals from around the world, such as whale sharks, manta rays, A Home Run Worth the Work NEW Bog Plants! hammerhead sharks and venomous snakes, while developing a truly hands-on approach to 12 A formal, Asian-inspired, Zen-like designing, creating and maintaining many different types of water features. WholesaleWaterlilies.com is the PondMegastore Wholesale Division 330-488-2115 January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 13 Pond Patina MEET ALL OF YOUR WATER FEATURE NEEDS WITH ATLANTIC WATER GARDENS FORMAL SPILLWAYS PUMPS FOUNTAIN PRODUCTS POND EQUIPMENT LIGHTING RAIN HARVESTING A Pond's Patina POND-FREE EQUIPMENT AERATION MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS Protect vital critters with proper pond management

ATLANTIC WATER GARDENS UNIVERSITY - ONLINE Jamie Beyer, Midwest Waterscapes

very pond is as unique as its owner. This unique- ness results from a huge number of variables, including climate, size and style of pond, fish, Eplants, human involvement, circulation, filters … the list goes on. However, there is one aspect of all ponds that is the same. That is the pond’s biofilm, or what I like to call A Pond’s Patina (APP). This element is critical to how I manage my clients’ and my own ponds. APP is so important to a pond ecosystem that, even though I wrote about it nine years ago in the magazine Pondkeeper, I want to revisit the subject.

The roots of plants like Yellow Flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus) provide a natural home for invertebrates and bacteria — all part of the pond's natural ecosystem. A Layer of Life So what is APP? It is the layer of life that can exist on everything in an aquatic ecosystem that is in contact with well-oxygenated water. It is the pond’s natural biological filter. Most pond keepers know this as the “slime” layer that makes things slick. Many species of invertebrates and bacte- www.ATLANTICWATERGARDENS.com ria make up a large component of APP. Some are visible to Atlantic Water Gardens | 4494 Orchard Street | Mantua, Ohio 44255 the naked eye. Others are so small that a magnifying glass, The limestone 2016 PRODUCT CATALOG (P) 330-274-8317 | (F)330-274-8790 | (E) [email protected] dissecting scope or even a microscope is needed to see them. piece was partially covered by another piece of Critters like amoebas, worms, rotifers, aquatic insects and limestone. The biofilm can- COMING JANUARY FOLLOW US ON ALL OF OUR SOCIAL NETWORKS AND STAY UP TO DATE CALL, FAX OR EMAIL FOR YOUR COPY their larvae are just some examples. Literally tens of thou- not grow where it is devoid sands of species can exist in a healthy pond’s ecosystem. It is of oxygen.

January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 15 Water Hyacinth roots provide a natural biofilter for ponds. They not only utilize ammonia and other toxic byproducts of fish waste as well as not important to know all the kinds and be able to a Midwestern water garden to reach its best oxygen. But you still need some circula- the pond itself provides a huge population of type of substrate for APP to grow on. Plants organic matter decomposition, but they also identify them. What is important is to know they ecosystem equilibrium. tion in those cold months. critters to inoculate it. also extract the end products of the ammonia provide a home for all kinds of small critters. exist and that you should do everything in your Once APP becomes mature, string algae is These critters are the pond's natural ecosystem. A four-letter word (that is actually Prevent excessive accumulation of organic cycle that are created by fish excretions and power to keep APP healthy. less likely to grow on that surface, which has five letters) that I say to never use or do load by keeping the leaves and sediment decomposition of organic matter. There is another live component of APP that already been populated by surface algae and is SCRUB. Never power wash or scrub from building up and depleting the available PPM also means never overstocking is critical for this microcosm of invertebrates APP critters. According to my own observa- the main body of the pond. APP has oxygen. fish or overfeeding them. This adds more and bacteria to prosper. That is algae! Yes, there tions, the main body of a mature pond with taken two to three years to mature, so to ammonia for the patina to process. There is are good species of algae that we need in our APP equilibrium will not support the growth power wash it is just plain crazy. By doing The Power of Plants only so much APP can do. ponds. Patina algae provide a substrate for the of string algae. The string algae will still grow this, the pond has been set back to new PPM involves adding plants. As Adding some kinds of chemicals or soaps critters to adhere to, and some even graze on it. in the stream because its patina died when the pond status. A majority of my clients mentioned earlier, plants add a different can kill critters or algae. This might be APP is on the rocks, liner, pots, all plant stream was shut down for winter. want the “slime” removed. They want parts (including roots), in to see the beauty of the stone because, in the filters and, to a lesser their minds, this seems the most natural. extent, in the water itself. However, the opposite is true. It takes Tackle tough pond maintenance Of course, the critters in the some time to convince pond owners of the water are free-floating, and importance of this layer of life. A pond with an “Easy” solution that is how some of them that does not have APP looks odd and can colonize new surfaces, unnatural to experienced pond keepers. which most do. There are Since the pond’s ecosystem has been invertebrates that live their disrupted, the pond will go through new whole lives in the water pond cycles every year. This can require column without attaching chemicals to control the cycles. to any surface. The amount Attempting to grow a thicker layer This plastic pot, which was pulled out of a pond, had and type of patina varies with what it is attached only an inch of muck in the bottom of it. APP grew of APP is not possible. The layer has to. For example, plant roots directly exposed to above the muck layer. Since the patina needs oxygen, it an optimum thickness, above which will only grow above the detritus layer. the water column will have a unique surface that the lower part of the patina will start to Our family of water treatment products is designed to work together to certain critters thrive on. Water Hyacinths, with Proper Pond Management suffocate and slough off. Fish are also achieve the natural ecological balance every pond needs to maintain clean clear water. their roots dangling in the water, have heavily- constantly grazing on it, which is healthy Now I want to introduce a new subject, Solutions for Every Need colonized root zone micro ecosystems, provid- called Proper Pond Management (PPM). This for the fish but does keep the layer only a Match the pond’s need to the correct EasyPro water treatment. We’ve created ing a large surface area for diverse and healthy is the most critical part of cultivating a healthy millimeter or so thick. over a dozen treatments for just about every water issue that may arise. biological activity. patina. In most cases PPM requires far less work Most ponderers shut down the stream Eliminate the Guesswork in the fall, so the patina in a stream will Each product has simple dosages and application instructions with initial in maintaining the pond than what is normally treatment and maintenance doses specified. Maintaining Equilibrium die anyway. It is OK to power wash just done by some pond keepers. All Natural Earlier I stated that one thing all ponds One aspect of PPM involves creating good the stream in the spring, but only right Eco-Friendly items work with nature and avoid harsh chemicals.

E Products marked with the Eco-Friendly icon are safe for use around c ly have in common is some sort of patina, but oxygen levels throughout the pond in both after startup, before the stream has been o-Friend pets, fish, plants and wildlife. the amount will differ. There is an optimum winter and summer. Low oxygen levels are running for very long. That stream will colonize quickly once it is started, because Made in the USA equilibrium between the plants, good algae and the most limiting factor in APP development. EasyPro water treatments are proudly manufactured in the USA. critters. A new pond and its ecosystem are in a Increasing circulation can decrease the potential Retail Ready dynamic flux of changing populations. As the for areas of low oxygen, or dead zones. Just how Full color, retail friendly packaging unites our products as a family brand. pond matures, this balance becomes more stable. much circulation is enough? A rule of thumb for Solid margins are built-in to our products with the value of a lower “cost-per-treatment” on the entire EasyPro water treatment lineup. The balance will still fluctuate with changing small ponds is to pump the water a minimum of For more information on EasyPro water treatments, visit our website: conditions, like weather, plant and fish popula- one pond volume every one to two hours. For easypropondproducts.com/water-treatments tions, but not as dramatically. This balance can example, a 1,000-gallon pond must have a water be easily upset. For example, adding a treatment pump with an output of 500 to 1,000 gallons Get a Free Trial Gallon of for string algae could inadvertently kill all the per hour, or GPH. This water is directed to areas EasyPro All Season Pond Bacteria! algae in the pond, including the patina algae. that create the best circulation within the pond. Call us before April 30, 2016 to get your free gallon, A ponderer can speed up this balance This rule can be adjusted down some in larger use promo ASBG. (Limit one per company, wholesale customers only) by adding bacteria, plants and muck from a ponds of 10,000 to 15,000 gallons. A flow rate healthy, mature water garden. However, time of 5,000 to 7,000 GPH (or one pond volume is still necessary for the development of healthy per three to four hours) for a 20,000-gallon pond Bulk and private label options available, inquiries are welcome populations. A community of APP can mature is enough in most cases. Wintertime circulation The Calico Shubunkin Goldfish enjoy browsing the easypropondproducts.com • 800-448-3873 faster in warmer climates than colder climates. rates can be lower, since the demand for oxygen patina, shown growing on the liner in this photo. It takes a minimum of two to three years for decreases and cold water holds much more APP provides all kinds of natural food for fish.

PondTrade-HalfPgIsland-Jan16.indd 1 11/25/15 10:12 AM 16 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 17 appropriate for certain kinds of algae, but you So, it is less traumatic for the ecosystem (the may inadvertently kill the good kinds as well. fish and APP) if the saved water is used when Swim Ponds Of course there are good additives, so know the transferring them back into the pond. possible consequences by doing your research. Finally, add surface area for APP to colo- About the Author When cleaning a pond, avoid letting the nize. One way is by adding a biological filter. A Water gardening has been a patina dry out. I will periodically spray the properly designed biofilter is an ideal home for passion of Jamie Beyer's for over the patina. The types of critters in these filters 50 years and he has worked on over is different than those on the rocks because 1,000 ponds. these filters are dark and algae will not grow He personally has in them. Adding or lengthening a stream will several very large increase surface area available for APP to grow ponds, which on. Adding rocks to the sides of a pond will contain many kinds allow the patina to proliferate. Adding rocks of water plants and to the bottom of a pond is pointless, since fish. Jamie has a Master’s Degree in There was a muck layer in the bottom the sediment that covers the stone prevents of this pond. The patina only grows Fish and Wildlife the biofilm from forming. This area becomes above this layer where there is oxygen. Biology, is a Lifetime Master Gardener anaerobic (without oxygen) and can be toxic. and is founder and past president sides of the pond and all the stone with water Besides, removing excess sediment in a rocked of the Central Iowa Water Garden as I am cleaning a pond. Even shutting a pond bottom becomes a tedious job. Association. He has a broad back- stream down for an hour or two can be lethal To be a successful pond keeper you must ground in fisheries, the dynamics of for the stream patina unless it is kept wet with a do everything in your power to allow APP to water, horticulture and aquatic and garden hose spray. Also, when cleaning a pond, prosper. Practice PPM and your clients will wildlife ecology. try to save as much water as you can in tempo- have a much more enjoyable water garden He owns a consulting/installation rary pools. As mentioned earlier, this water has with less work. What is good for ponds’ business, Midwest Waterscapes, in a lot of critters in it. 100-percent-new water natural biological filters is good for the fish, which he works as a water garden, An NSP in Ojai, California with traditional pool optics, featured on Animal Planet’s The Pool Master. Photo courtesy of California BioNova and Animal Planet. will change the pH as well as the temperature. the plants and the beauty of water gardens. a fountain and pond consultant/installer.

Leak-Proof Ponds Swimming Ponds with HERCO Fish Pond Coating vs. Natural Swimming Pools HERCO Coating is Ideal for all Types of Ponds Seals and Leak-Proofs Block, Brick and Concrete Safe for Fish and for the Environment HERCO Coating Promotes Healthy Aquaculture A distinction without a difference Easy to Apply ∙ Fast Curing ∙ Durable ∙ Long-Lasting

HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (Black) $125.00 gal. HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (Grey) $140.00 gal. by James Robyn, HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (White) $140.00 gal. HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (Clear) $140.00 gal. BioNova Natural Pools HERCO CCFW Crack Filler (White) $ 24.00 ea. HERCO CCFC Crack Filler (Clear) $ 26.00 ea. HERCO TC-700 Cleaner $ 65.00 gal. hen a designer/builder sells a concept to a homeowner HERCO PSC Primer $ 69.00 gal. to construct a vessel with the intent of having people swim in it — but instead of using chemicals to treat theW water, the swimming water will be treated with biological filtration — what should we call this vessel? Two terms are being bandied about in the industry. Some people HecHt RubbeR refer to these as Swimming Ponds and others refer to them as Natural coRpoRtation Swimming Pools. Is there a difference between the two? Since 1944 In my opinion, the answer is that there is a distinction, but there is really no difference. The original “Swimming Pond” was James and Hae-Sun Robyn with Werner Gamerith, inventor of the NSP. Phone Orders and Tech Advice: 1-800-872-3401 ● Online: www.hechtrubber.com ● Email: [email protected] invented in Austria by Werner Gamerith in 1983. My wife and I

18 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 19 had the good fortune to meet with Herr Gamerith 1) It is a sealed, contained, i.e., watertight vessel. and public. Five distinct types of Swimming by the British landscape designer Michael From left to right: An NSP in Maine in Austria last year and attend one of his lectures at 2) The planted zone is separated from the with naturalistic, pondlike elements. Ponds and/or Natural Swimming Pools are Littlewood. He eschewed the literal translation Photo courtesy of BioNova Natural the International Organization for Natural Bathing swimming zone so that the swimmers do not defined by the FLL. It’s beyond the scope of of Schwimmteiche to Swimming Ponds and Pools and Rin Robyn Pools. A tradi- disturb the plants. this article to discuss these five different types, instead coined the term “Natural Swimming tional NSP (middle) in a small back- Water, to which I am the appointed representa- yard near Boston, Massachusetts. tive from the USA. The IOB (see www.iob-ev.eu ) 3) There is no use of chemicals or devices to but in a future article we can explore this inter- Pools” for the title of his book. Photo courtesy of Waterscapes by considers itself to be the “governing body of swim- disinfect or sterilize the water. The water is clarified esting subject. In 2007, my firm, BioNova Natural Pools, Jesse Dutra. A pondlike NSP (above) and purified with natural biological systems. in Utah with decorative stone boul- ming pond experts.” Next, in 2005, the first book in the introduced the genuine German Schwimmteich ders and naturalistic water features. In 2003 the German FLL English language on the subject was written conforming to FLL Guidelines to the North Photo courtesy of Utah Waters Edge. Tracing the Terms (Forschungsgesellschaft Landschaftsentwicklung Landschaftsbau, or The Society for Landscape In German, the word for a Swimming Pond is Development and Landscape Construction) Schwimmteich (literally SwimPond) and that is what developed and published a set of guidelines for Herr Gamerith called his invention. The Swimming Cover of the most recent edition the design and construction of Swimming Ponds of Schwimmteich und Naturpool, Pond manifests three discrete characteristics: and Natural Swimming Pools, both residential with permission of the publisher.

A traditional NSP in Connecticut with bluestone islands and adjacent regeneration zone. Photo courtesy of Freddy's Landscape Co. and Artemis Landscape Architects.

20 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 21 American market. We decided to use The point being that if one designs a the FLL Guidelines, a Schwimmteich the term Natural Swimming Pool or vessel for people to swim or bathe in, then is an NSP of Types I, II or III and a Natural Swimming Pond, abbreviated as this vessel should be designed, permitted Naturpool is either a Type IV or V. NSP, to describe our product. Although and constructed as a swimming pool, no There is even a magazine published today I’ve always said that we should call these matter what type of water purification we called Schwimmteich und Naturpool “constructed swimming ponds,” the are using. Issues with respect to every- that illustrates the point. term Natural Swimming Pool sounds a thing from access to zoning, including So there is a distinction between lot better and we intentionally use the depth configuration, diving envelopes, a Swimming Pond and a Natural shortened term NSP. Swimming Pond. But, this distinction is We consciously chose to use the If one designs a vessel in how they look — a Swimming Pond term NSP instead of Swimming for people to swim or looks more like a pond and a Natural Ponds because in English, the words Swimming Pool looks more like a tradi- “Swimming Ponds” are too nebulous. bathe in, then this vessel tional pool — and although there is A “Swimming Pond” could easily be a should be designed, a distinction, there is no difference in spring-fed pond that people swim in — permitted and constructed terms of the definition of the NSP, which or a diverted or sectioned-off portion of is the term that we use for both of these. a stream. We quickly found that using as a swimming pool, no They still meet the same basic three crite- the term “Swimming Pond” caused more matter what type of water ria — and most importantly, they should confusion to the uninitiated than to use purification we are using. be designed and constructed in confor- the term NSP after having defined it. mance with swimming pool code. a However, there have been several electrical safety, fencing, line velocities, recent magazine articles attempting turnover rates and VGB compliance, to juxtapose the Swimming Pond and need to be taken into account in order to the Natural Swimming Pool as being About the Author provide for human safety. somehow adversarial. And, the term Over the years, we’ve had many James Robyn is the president Swimming Pond is sometimes being potential clients looking to go “under the and CEO of BioNova Natural Pools, misused to describe a vessel that is radar” with an NSP by saying, “Let’s not which supports a network of Dealer designed for people to swim in, but actu- Partners around get a permit; we’ll just tell them that it’s ally is a landscape pond and does not North America a pond!” In my opinion this is foolhardy in the design, conform to swimming pool code. and naive. »Making your Water Garden construction and Today in Germany, the English Swimming Pool Codes maintenance of term Natural Swimming Pool has back- NSPs. Robyn simply perfect.« In my opinion, it is wrong to design filtered its way into the German language is also the and construct a vessel with the intention with the word Naturpool. And in founder and first of allowing people to swim in it, but not German-speaking Europe now, the word president of the build it in conformance with swimming Schwimmteich refers to an NSP that Association for Swimming Ponds and Experience the German quality of OASE products for years to come. pool standards. This is potentially an insur- looks like a pond and the term Naturpool Natural Swimming Pools. For more ance and legal nightmare should anyone be refers to an NSP that looks more like a information on the ASPNSP, email Globally, OASE’s reputation guarantees an enjoyable pond experience, injured or die in one of these vessels. traditional swimming pool. In terms of [email protected]. thanks to high performance, long service life and reliability.

Learn more about the complete line of OASE products at www.oase-livingwater.com or call 1-866-627-3435.

OASE – PASSiOnAtE AbOut wAtEr

With a global reputation A traditional gunite NSP in Connecticut with for excellence, you can take bluestone patio. Photo courtesy of Freddy's comfort in OASE’s unmatched Landscape Co. and Artemis Landscape Architects. knowledge and expertise.

January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 23 Language of Koi

by Shane Stefek, many hobbyists alike enjoy the challenge head and good separation between the Water Garden Gems and the game of raising the koi from babies eyes, signifying the likelihood that the fish and gambling with a little luck. will grow larger. At the tail, we are looking ne of the most enjoyable aspects for a wider tail joint so that when the koi Picking the Greats of owning a koi pond is picking is larger, the thickness will “show” more out your new pond family So how do you pick future greats when powerful conformation. members.O A trip to your local koi dealer is they are merely 4 to 6 inches now? How “Skin quality” means high gloss and exciting, and you generally have a plan in do you guess what the fish will look like shine as well as purity of color. Ultimately, mind before you walk through the gates. in three years? Although it is not a science, how detailed the breeders are in their For instance, how many koi do you need? there are definite traits we look for in baby culling and their use of trusted blood- What size? Which colors or classifications koi that increase the likelihood that our lines really makes a difference. This is why are you hoping to find, and how much are new little addition will add great beauty to you should buy from sources that have a you willing to spend? Whether tradition for great koi. Certain you are shopping to add beauty farms are known for high gloss, to your pond or shopping for a pure whites, deep reds, Ginrin or future show koi, the reality soon reticulation patterns from head to takes hold when you look into tail, et cetera. the tanks and cannot decide. Are you making the right decision?! The Black and the Red “What will this koi look like Inspect the black, buy the in a few years? Should I buy large red. When choosing reds (Hi) or small? Who can help me?” and blacks (Sumi), seeing the fish in the future is critical to your Gambling with Tosai selection. Red is the baseline When we look at koi, we have “must-have” to consider the koi. to understand that what we see However, red is delicate in small when we are buying Tosai (one- koi, so you want to look for deep, year-old koi) is not what we may consistent red from the front to see in the future. This is especially the back of the koi and in large true when we are buying baby patterns rather than splotches. koi in the typical 3-to-5-inch and Consistency from head to tail and 6-to-8-inch ranges. That perfect side to side is what we want our Sanke at 6 to 8 inches today may Hi (red) to become. Of course, be a show-winner in three years. we need to see the potential Or, it could be bleached out or future two-step/three-step/four- blackened and lose all color and step pattern down the dorsal, value. Will the colors run or but it is more than pattern. The splotch? Will the pattern improve with the our pond for years to come. red has to stay there, and that is why we growth of the koi? Will the black take over? We are going to discuss three of those are looking at the details of the coloring Will the red disappear? These are questions traits: Body and Quality; the Red and the beyond the pattern. that we all ask, novice and professional, Black; and finally, Pattern. To best guess where we will keep the because it is not a perfect science. And that red, we look at the edges of coloring. We Oh is what makes “growing out” koi exciting. Body and Quality want the head side of the red patterns to It is a fun and dynamic hobby. First and foremost, we have to buy be a little blurred, because we are looking No matter how experienced, you have the healthiest fish, as this is key in growth at those red scales under the white scales in no guarantees in choosing baby koi. This potential. Make sure the fish is swimming front of them. This gets cleaned up when fact is at the heart of the reality that most normally, socializing with the other koi in the koi grows. If we do not see this, then Baby,Baby! koi show winners are purchased as larger the tank, has no apparent fin or body flaws the red is likely shallow and the front line fish already. With grown koi, you can see and has head and tail potential. When we of red will change. In the sides and tail end Peer into the future to select show-winning koi what you are getting. But breeders and look at the head, we are looking for a broad of the color patches, we want to see defined January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 25 separation between the red and the white line, will hold more color pattern as most common mistake in buying rather than a messy mixture. Bold red is it grows and the pattern “spreads” baby koi is buying what you see and the ultimate goal. across the wider body. It is critical not what you don’t see. You need to About the Author Where the Hi is your baseline on that pattern exist from head to tail, know what color patterns do with the white painter’s canvas, your Sumi but when selecting baby koi you have maturity and predict where colors will Shane Stefek is the president of Water (black) is the icing on the cake. Sumi to know that generally speaking, red change. For example, it’s very likely Garden Gems, a koi and pond specialty retailer can be equally hard to predict and even is stronger near the head and weaker that a great three-step adult Kohaku outside San Antonio, Texas. more frustrating than red because often was the baby Kohaku that had solid Water Garden Gems has been times underlying Sumi never develops. Remember, you are red head to tail that looked too plain. a leader in the koi and water So you choose a Showa with great Hi This baby Shiro Utsuri Ginrin and Tosai Inazuma Kohaku have great potential. Both display great body garden industry for over 25 shape; their color is deep, broad, and defined; and their patterns have winning potential. buying koi that have But an educated and experienced eye and a potential Sumi pattern that would might have seen “stepping” potential years. Water Garden Gems how good the black on white is and less not “filled out” yet. be “show-worthy,” and then half of the in the center of the scale than on the edge. in the red that would occur as the fish annually hosts the longest Sumi does not develop and you are left You can check the center of the scale by attention to the black on red. The most common broadens and the red stretches, allow- running koi show in Texas and with a poor-quality koi with black only at carefully bending the fish to spread the mistake in buying ing white to show through. is a premier supplier of imported Japanese koi and show-quality the tail, or scattered. Or, when the black scales apart and looking between them Pattern It is a gamble buying baby koi, baby koi is buying goldfish. Shane and his bride, Alona, along with their does rise, it is flat rather than high-quality to see the color going through to the Pattern is what most buyers see, and but it can be the most enjoyable and three sons — Nicholas, Peyton and Travis — work to gloss. body of the fish, although this is not very it overwhelms the above qualities that are what you see and not rewarding part of the hobby. Shop help their customers create their own backyard oases When we look at the black, we want to commonly allowed by retailers in order more important. In saying that, though, what you don’t see. reputable suppliers, listen to trusted as they enjoy sharing their knowledge and love for the to maintain the safety of the fish. If the see two things. First, we want at least one pattern is ultimately what sets apart the experts, have them “bowl” several fish hobby. With 15 years of pond-building experience, scale of good Sumi present in the young outside edge of the scale is darker, be it good from the great. One of the critical toward the tail. Also, black starts for you to compare side by side, and Shane shares his knowledge at numerous seminars koi we can judge well (most Sumi is under Sumi or Hi, this is not a stable color and elements to look for in pattern is how far heavier at the tail and often works its you may raise a Show Champion one throughout central Texas each year at clubs, businesses the top layers of scales in baby koi, so you will likely go away. We want to see color down the side of the baby koi the pattern way up the fish with age (in Sanke day by shopping out of the 5-to-7- and schools. He also hosts club meetings and events are looking through red or white scales that is darkest deep into the scale. This falls. As the koi matures, it broadens its and Showa primarily). inch tank. And that would be an at Water Garden Gems, where hobbyists can enjoy and unable to determine quality of black). is the color that will develop well. Also, body shape, so a baby koi with far-reaching Remember, you are buying koi achievement any hobbyist would be 3.5 acres of waterfalls, ponds, fountains — and more Second, we want the black to be darker for a truer mark, pay more attention to pattern down the sides, below the lateral that have not “filled out” yet. The proud of! a than 25,000 gallons of koi and goldfish sale tanks.

26 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 27 Wild Thing

Mia's enclosure (left) is quite nice, measuring 26 by 24 feet outdoors with an attached 14-by-14-foot indoor sunroom. Mia's hut and platforms (right) duplicate natural environments while providing exercise and playtime.

learned to deal with the cat’s instincts of The Perfect System Ionizer adds minerals to the water, dramati- swatting, clawing and pouncing. Mia can cally decreasing organic buildup on rocks Atlantic Water Gardens’ Oasis Pond- and will draw blood, so adequate care and and coping of the water feature. Microbe- Free System comprises a heavy-duty compact Lift PL eats up waste from Mia while natu- caution must be taken when handling her. pump chamber, Eco-Blox, a robust waterfall rally maintaining healthy water quality. spillway, an auto-fill kit, 45-mil EPDM liner Building a Habitat Restor safely removes the remaining gunk and PVC. And we recommended the new buildup on the waterfall rocks, eliminating In order to acquire an African serval TT series pump. The TT series pump does the need to power wash or scrub the water in Missouri, as in other states, a potential excellent work in a pump chamber applica- feature. adopter must take several classes and build tion, requires minimal maintenance, carries A mini tributary (left) provides entertainment and duplicates the natural environment of a serval. Mia explores all the nooks and crannies of her tributary (right), As of today, approximately five months created with Atlantic Water Gardens' Oasis line of Pond-Free products. a suitable habitat that accommodates the a three-year limited warranty and uses very later, Mia loves her tributary and Larry and animal while providing a humane living little electricity. These components fit the bill Cassie love the low maintenance of the water space. The habitat must provide a safe envi- for the customer because they were robust feature. Even better, the tributary provides ronment for the adopter, the serval and the and easy to install and would work to create a Mia with hours of rooting and exploring Oh, Mama Mia! public. These habitats must be inspected by “tributary” inside Mia’s habitat. After all, it is time while burning excess energy — without local and state government. all about the cat. The added bonus was that, being destructive inside her enclosure. a Unleashing a feature fit for a wild animal Larry and Cassie went through all the regardless of whether they purchased a pre- necessary protocols, constructed a habitat boxed kit or purchased all the components by Aaron Burchett, under pressure, and we all know the disadvantages and obtained certification to adopt Mia. separately, there was a complete instruction Based on the natural habitat of the animal, manual detailed with illustrations addressing PondMarket of sumps pumps and garden hoses. The power consumption of a sump pump is mind-boggling; not required by the government, they both applications. About the Author many are oil-filled. And what happens to a garden decided that Mia needed a water feature to ne weekday afternoon, a customer came Aaron Burchett and family hose when a rock is placed on top of it? finish off her habitat. African servals, being Maintenance into our store inquiring about installing a opened PondMarket in After communicating these few facts, the native to Sub-Saharan Africa, live along water feature. Interestingly, he followed it The next major obstacle was mainte- 1997, serving the DIY customer was receptive to exploring components tributaries. African servals have the ability to upO with, “I’ve looked it up online and I really do not nance, in terms of water quality and overall and contractor markets. composing a quality system. Before showing him swim, but rarely do so. want to buy a bunch of expensive jazz.” With all the appearance. As with any animal enclosure, PondMarket expanded products, I needed to ask about the application to into regional markets in home remedies out there and the DIY channel, who After discussing Mia, her natural habitat there are waste issues and organic debris recommend the appropriate system. I must admit, 1999 with the launch of can blame him? Homemade projects are made to and maintenance expectations of the water issues. In a natural setting, of course, Mia I was not prepared for the answer. the company’s website, look easy and doable with common household items. feature with Larry and Cassie, we all decided would live near tributaries and rely on PondMarket.com. Since I took the time to explain the difference between that a pond-free system was the way to go for the tributaries for food and playtime. The Mia the African Serval them and for Mia. We compared the pros pond-free water feature would duplicate this 2009, PondMarket a quality system and a homemade system, centering has been the vendor of choice for low- In 18 years of business, I have never sold a water and cons of a DIY, product-based solution necessary component of her life. Keeping my factual points on routine maintenance, sustain- maintenance water feature design, instal- versus a professionally designed system. I this in mind, a natural and non-toxic main- ability and reliability. For example, in a pond-free feature for a cat … even an ordinary one. And this lation and maintenance in the St. Louis mentioned pump longevity, safety and energy system, a five-gallon bucket can be used in place of was no ordinary cat. Mia is an African serval. tenance regimen was needed to address and Illinois markets. Aaron has been, and a pump chamber, milk crates can be used in place of For those wondering, African servals are consumption as well as future maintenance. toxicity and organic buildup. The last thing continues to be, solicited by garden clubs Eco-Blox and a sump pump with garden hose can medium-size cats native to Sub-Saharan Africa. They decided they needed a heavy-duty solu- Larry and Cassie wanted was a water feature and koi clubs for presentations throughout be used to run the system and deliver water to the Although they can be aggressive, Mia, in many tion designed for a professional installer, but they had to power wash and clean on a the country regarding low-maintenance waterfall. ways, is no different than any other ordinary a system that was easy for them to install at regular basis. water feature design and construction and Of course, there are many downsides to using house cat. African servals tend to take to one the same time. We had the perfect solution We recommended the Triton Ionizer as fish and water-quality care. He is certified these types of products. Five-gallon buckets and person, similar to a parrot. In this case, Mia has in stock: the Oasis Pond-Free System manu- well as a regimen consisting of Microbe-Lift in geomembrane design and construction milk crates do not maintain structural integrity taken to Cassie. Larry, on the other hand, has factured by Atlantic Water Gardens. PL and PondMarket Restor. The Triton by Firestone Speciality Products.

28 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 29 Introducing... Breathe New Life Into Lakes and Ponds The Benefits of EasyPro Aeration New Pressurized Bead Filters! Systems and Beneficial Bacteria Installing aeration is the single most valuable water Mechanical and biological filtration for water management and water maintenance strategy that can be implemented. The movement of oxygenated water from the gardens, koi ponds and hybrid ponds bottom up provides a long list of benefits to a body of water. Filter Features: Bacteria augmentation with naturally occurring bacteria builds on the value of aeration. Adding Pond-Vive and Sludge • Four sizes available for 1,800 to 10,000 gallon ponds Remover Bacteria is a natural biological way to revive a pond. • Strong, heavy duty, polyethylene filter body The combination of aeration and bacteria make a great one-two Ultimate • Ultimate Tube Media included for maximum Tube Media punch in pond maintenance programs. filtration and minimal back pressure Whatever your needs, we have the products and decades of experience to help achieve • Has clear section to monitor cleaning cycle your goals. Contact us for our new 2016 Lake & Pond Management catalog. • Simple to set up and assemble, great filters for fish displays • Injection molded support base • 1800 and 3600 gallon units are pre-assembled for easy “out-of-the-box” installation Brass Wall Scuppers Underwater Lights • Drain in tank for easy draining and winterizing Let these beautiful brass scuppers accent New! LED lights with New! Air Blower Upgrade Option: your formal wall for a stunning display. stainless steel housing • Using a blower to agitate the media inside Expanding on the popular Vianti Falls scupper line, these New stainless pond and water feature lights the filter prior to backflush will greatly new scuppers make an attractive and simple edition to formal that can be used in or out of pond. The warm white LED will illuminate your pond speed up the cleaning process water features. Cast brass units have an antique finish for added character. or formal feature with 115 lumens per watt. • Reduces water loss during backflush and PBF3600BL Filter with air Available in two sizes — 12 and 18 watt. helps prevent beads from clumping blower upgrade

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PondTrade-JanFeb16.indd 1 11/24/15 4:06 PM Liner Choices Looking for Exciting New Products Stop the Seepage! To Sell? Choose the right liner to seal your pond by Paul Amos, expressed in feet per second (ft/sec) or get even lower permeability rates, such as Amos Sales Associates, Ltd. centimeters per second (cm/sec) and indi- 1 x 10-11. Liquid-applied synthetics and cates the rate at which water would flow premanufactured synthetics are technically impermeable, so moisture vapor transmis- Putting the finishing touches on a black-colored concrete liner. onds and lakes come in a variety Selecting a liner is based sion rates are used to calculate their relative of shapes and sizes. No matter if of factors. Obviously, low permeability chemical attack, dead fish and reductions permeability, which is often as low as 1 x it’s a small backyard water garden, on a variety of factors. is critical, as this is directly related to the in the quality of the liquid contained. 10-12 or 10-13. New line aP rain catchment basin, a fish farm pond, purpose for the liner installation. However, The conditions of the site — includ- Obviously, low permeability These numbers are fun to think about, a stormwater basin, an irrigation lake or in areas of high rain and/or runoff that will ing what kinds of equipment will access of Koi Pond Solar but in reality, what does this mean? In a a recreational and storage reservoir ... in is critical, as this is directly help keep a pond at the desired water level, the area, high winds and dust, existing 400-square-foot area, gravel would seep Aerators order for it to adequately hold water, the related to the purpose for we can choose products at the upper end drainage and other factors — can dictate over 300,000,000 gallons per year and basin must be constructed of a low-perme- of a good scale of permeability (1 x 10-6 the type of liner best suited to the project. 2.0 CFM of air! the liner installation. sand over 30,000,000. Clay would vary ability or impermeable liner that will seal cm/sec) specification. In areas prone to Also, sealing to numerous detail struc- between 3,000 and 30,000, and amend- the structure — or greatly limit seepage. drought or long periods without rain or tures such as pipes, walls and corners can through the material. ments could impact this 10 to 20 percent. runoff, we should target the lower end of affect liner selection and success. Calculating Seepage Sand and gravel, for instance, are Concretes and synthetics would seep less the scale (1 x 10-11 or less). And, of course, we must consider highly permeable and can be expressed as than 20 gallons per year. Durability is another key factor in value. I say “value” instead of “price” The engineering community uses 1 x 10-2 or 10-3 cm/sec. Compacted clay selecting a liner. Unless the desired life because I believe there is a balance testing and known equations to calculate and/or soil-amended clay can seep at rates Factors to Consider of a project is very short, we want some- between the initial price, installation time seepage rates, or permeability, through of 1 x 10-5 all the way down to 1 x 10-10 thing that will last long and hold up to and maintenance and repair of issues and various materials. This is typically Selecting a liner is based on a variety cm/sec. Properly constructed concrete can the environmental conditions in which it problems that arise during the service is installed. Liquids generally have great life. There seems to be a segment of the Reinforced EPDM was used to line a fish mass, so adequate structure to support the market that does not have the funds to do hatchery pond in Dexter, New Mexico. containment is, for obvious reasons, critical. it right initially but does have the funds to Selecting a liner well-suited to the do it over. Searching for the best value is application is also very important. aimed at avoiding this scenario. Most realistic gators on Choosing the wrong liner can lead to Each type of liner has advantages and the market! Great for scaring away herons & other predators

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32 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 33 disadvantages in performance. The balance quently “plugging” existing gaps that water swell rate and, when wetted, will plug up Concrete membranes offer very low permeability and From left to right: EPDM seals a backyard water can seep through. If a good quality clay is gaps in soil. Permeability can be reduced install seamlessly, with no folds or wrinkles garden in Kingwood, Texas. Putting the finishing of this article will address those qualities Concrete offers the best structure of all touches on a black-colored concrete liner. A pond- on-site, it is usually the most cost-effective several orders of magnitude with this on the surfaces to which they are applied. free stream and falls over 30-mil LLPDE. 45 mil and hopefully give readers some insight liner types. When installed properly, using product to install. Clays can be tricky, process. Polymeric additives function The surface must have adequate structure and EPDM. This 125-by-225-foot pond (above) was into what it takes to select, then success- the right reinforcements and psi values, it lined with one seamless piece of 30-mil PVC. as low PI (plasticity index) values won’t similarly. Success increases as the product be properly prepared. The thickness of the fully install, low-permeability liners. The offers a long-term, low-permeability liner. result in the best barriers. Clay installation is tilled into the soil, wetted and then applied membrane can be operator-depen- liners I have chosen to discuss are: clays, Concrete is typically more expensive than the product is typically very high. Synthetic requires a large carbon footprint to install compacted. As with clay, this has a higher dent, so choosing someone with successful amended soils, concrete, liquid applied membranes can be supplied in large panels and, when left exposed to the elements, carbon footprint and when exposed will be the other types of liner, is susceptible to experience is strongly recommended. and manufactured synthetic liners. clay can dry and desiccate, leading to crack- subject to the same drying and desiccat- cracking and can affect the pH of the water Synthetic manufactured membranes to minimize or even eliminate field seaming. during the initial phase of operation. These liners do not have structure and must Natural Options ing and leakage. Wet/dry and freeze/thaw ing qualities of clay. There are applications are also very low-permeability products. cycles can damage the liner’s efficacy. where these products are applied in existing Compared to liquid-applied membranes be placed on properly prepared subgrades. Clays and soil-amended liners are There are both natural and polymeric ponds full of water. The theory is that the Synthetic Options and concrete, they can be very cost-effective. They are generally thin (20 to 80 mils) and nature’s best barriers. Good clays have small soil amendments that will decrease perme- particles will flow to the leaks and start to Liquid-applied membranes may Since they are manufactured in a controlled can, unless placed on smooth ground, run particles that expand in moisture, subse- ability. Sodium Bentonite has a very high plug them. be sprayed or applied by roller. These environment, the quality and uniformity of the risk of penetration. The ability of these

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34 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 35 liners to withstand chemical attack, resist elongation and decent strength, but in ing of the maintenance involved with ultraviolet exposure and be “fish friendly” the presence of sunlight it can become the particular liner chosen. During the varies greatly. brittle. Polypropylene has good strength design process, some of the questions and good elongation but has had varied that need to be answered are: What is About the Author Choosing a Synthetic success in exposed applications. EPDM the application? What is the desired Paul Amos is the managing member of The basic varieties of synthetic has the best elongation and UV resis- appearance? What is the expected life of Amos Sales Associates, Ltd., a manufacturer’s rep membrane liners are polyethylene, PVC, tance but limited chemical resistance. the project? What is the annual rainfall, firm in Kingwood, Texas, near Houston. Following EPDM and polypropylene. Choosing One would be wise to look at installa- and how does the site drain? What are 12 years in the environmental between these four types of liner can be very tions where liners have been successful the existing soil conditions? What regu- lining business — consulting with challenging, as manufacturers list product over long periods of time before select- lations or permitting will be involved? environmental engineers, landfill specifications that can get confusing. ing a liner for a particular project. Regarding installation, seek owners, industry regulators and Take, for example, puncture resistance. answers to questions like these: What other companies involved in design Lab puncture test using sharp probes to Success-Based Decisions are we good at? What kind of equip- and construction of lining systems measure the force required to penetrate As you can tell from the above, liner ment can I get to the site? Is adequate — Paul started a rep firm. Amos Sales Associates, Ltd. began in the liner will get different results from lab selection can be complex, and maybe power available? Is there space to store January of 2004 as the Firestone Specialty Products puncture tests using hydrostatic pressure even complicated. However, as with product before and during installation? What inspections will I perform representative assisting in the sales and installation over simulated rocks. Elongation is often most things, looking for good records of PondGard and EPDM Geomembrane liner. to ensure success? calculated from two-dimensional tests and of success is always a good place to Paul installed his first water garden in April Then, looking at maintenance, only break strength is recorded — omit- start. All of the above liner types have of 2004, and various industry experts have ting yield, which is the crucial measurement been installed successfully — and have consider site issues like drainage, helped form his education and knowledge of of the actual point at which the material experienced failure. Selection becomes groundwater, erosion, drought, flood, water gardens. The knowledge gained from these properties alter, rendering the liner suscep- a process that involves the right input et cetera. All of these factors can affect leaders, as well as managing a pond maintenance tible to breach. Polyethylene has excel- up front during design to narrow the the success of a liner. But with proper company for 3 years, have provided a base of This PVC pond liner was installed by lent strength and chemical resistance but options, the right techniques used to consideration, you can choose the information to share with others interested in pursu- a professional liner company. very poor elongation. PVC has very good install the liner and clear understand- perfect one for the job. a ing successful ventures in water gardening.

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36 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 37 Cover Story

Hanging in the Balance The precarious artistry of balancing stones

by Tim Anderson, depending on environmental factors. The Keystone Balance most common causes of demise are wind and humans. Despite what most imagine, rain has very little effect on the balance — even less so he art of precariously placing stones if it’s coming straight down. Many times those atop one another, usually in creative and who come upon a stone balance can’t resist a highly improbable formations, with the brief touch to see if it’s been glued. Usually, assistanceT of nothing other than gravity. For some to the surprise of the individual, the forma- it’s a hobby … for others, a form of meditation, a tion tumbles and they’re quite shocked. Not way to exercise creativity or even a profession. It many people have witnessed stones sitting in is stone balancing … and it is my passion. the fashion set by a highly skilled stone balance Below is a compilation of the most commonly artist. As if they defy the laws of physics, many asked questions I’ve received about stone balanc- balances are so precarious that the slightest ing over the last several years. breeze sends them tumbling to the ground. “How do you do that?” “Does it make you angry when they fall?” Balances falling is something that one gets The answer is always short and simple: tons used to quite quickly. It’s almost humorous, in of practice and patience! To the youngsters, I a way. Personal satisfaction is quickly obtained always just say that it’s magic, which almost the moment you remove your hands and realize always puts smiles on their faces. no further support is required. Given their often short life span, permanence of the stone balance “How long do they last?” is best achieved through photography … if you It ranges from a few seconds to a few weeks, can get to the camera quickly enough.

38 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 39 Bassinger Fisheries Koi & Goldfish Farm

Healthiest Koi and Goldfish in the USA! ● 100% Ulcer Free Farm ● 100% Virus Free Farm ● No New Fish Introduced in 17 years 100% Satisfaction Guarantee tion-starters and crowd-attractors. On tant. Usually, after about 10 minutes of an average summer day of balancing, watching the kids working on stacking hundreds stop to admire my creations. rocks, adults can’t help but offer guidance Most sit and watch as I continue to … and then begin their own creations. At create, inquisitive about the process of me the day’s end I almost always dismantle wandering the water, seeking out unique my work to prevent accidental topples and interesting stones to be used in the that could injure people or animals. It next balance. Upon completion, the also returns the pristine natural area back Rated Best All Around compliments and questions start flying. to the way it was before my arrival. American Koi I’ve found that most people are genuinely As much as I enjoy creating these by International Koi Judge excited to express their amazement about balances, at the end of the day it’s even ● Brilliant Colors “How long do they take to the onlookers as much as it is for me. what they’ve just watched. more fun to allow the kids to throw ● Stunning Patterns I’m amazed watching people be amazed. create?” I’m always happy to talk, explain and stones at them and watch them go down. ● Great Selection of Different Koi People become captivated by the process. After the stone selection process, hopefully spark some creativity in those Once, during an interview, I was and Butterfly Koi There’s often a crescendo of emotion, or most take less than 30 minutes or so. who otherwise consider themselves non- asked, “Why do you stone balance?” I’ve even disbelief, when they see an incredi- Some of the more complex configura- creative. Kids are quick to try to emulate, been asked that question almost as many bly large top stone picked up one-handed tions can take several hours. For me, I while the adults are a little more reluc- times as “How do you do that?” … the and gently placed upon a teetering, personally prefer to work in rivers, creeks unstable grouping of stones, each being and streams. The atmosphere is very steadied by the other. “No way” is often soothing and allows for the full concen- heard during this moment. tration required for the most delicate Barely visible micro-adjustments take balances. Besides the calming effect, place as the stones are moved into the exact One of two locations they contain beautiful, polished stones alignment required to achieve balance. Visit our new website at: that have been tumbled and smoothed As I move my hands away, an eruption www.BassingerKoiFarm.com over millions and billions of years, each of satisfaction comes from the crowd, one unique in shape and texture. These usually through applause. The disbelievers 817-366-1746 locations are always amazing and make become believers and are quick to verify 325-728-4237 Fax for an incredible studio, or “office.” the reality-bending madness that just [email protected] took place to all those who arrive after the Amazed at Their Amazement stone balance is standing free of support. “Do you get nervous when people It never ceases to surprise me how a few New Customer Special! watch?” balanced stones can break down barri- Not at all; I enjoy performing in ers between those stopping to admire. off front of people. It’s an experience for The balances themselves are conversa- 50% (on first $500 order) 40 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 41 Best Practices

About the Author KeyStone Balance is the artistic stone balance work of Pennsylvania native Tim Anderson. His work began as a result of a climbing injury that sidelined him during the 2011 season. Spending time along the river, having an artistic back- ground and being influenced by cairns he Hidden encountered during his winter travels in the mountains, Tim began his playful venture into stone balancing during latter being a much easier question to answer. Being asked the recovery process. As his skills evolved over the next several years and in Plain Sight many times, one would think a canned response should photos surfaced among friends, he was urged to share his talents with just flow out. However, this question always sends me into the world. In the summer of 2014 he made his public debut in Ohiopyle Gracefully concealing a brain spiral, pondering my true objective. State Park. The crowds responded well to his stone balance creations After a moment, I obliged the interviewer with several and demonstrations. Social media was the next step, where he began your filtration equipment answers that were all legitimate: to inspire; for my own featuring photographs of his stone balancing. Soon after, a website, festival bookings, art gallery shows, demonstrations, corporate workshops, creative outlet; to see what’s possible; because I’m curious; private collectors seeking prints for home and further success followed. to spend meditative time in nature; and several others. We While not traveling or doing demonstrations and appearances moved on to other discussions, but in reality I was left at shows, Tim spends the majority of his time stone balancing in the Faux rocks provide the perfect cover for a filtration system. pondering the question in my head the remainder of the creeks and rivers near his home. For more information, please visit makes or breaks a pond’s appearance. pond. Skimmers that come with lids day. In an epiphany I came up with the most understand- www.keystonebalance.com or find Tim’s work on Facebook by Kent Wallace, Customers want to see the pond — not are obviously plastic in appearance, able answer: “Because of the pure magic that transpires.” a under Keystone Balance. Living Water Solutions Inc. what makes it operate. Skimmers, settle- which leads most pond builders to ment tanks, prefilters, biofilters, UV use a flat stone instead. It’s fairly easy o be efficient, pond filtration lights and pumps are all types of equip- to wrap around the skimmer with equipment is usually installed ment that can be hidden to great effect. decorative rock, but the lid is the real as possible. as close to the pond problem. T Hiding these Hiding Skimmers One solution is to screw thin lath parts can be SERIES: Skimmers used on ponds are to the surface with stainless steel Best Pond Practices as creative an usually larger than the skimmers screws and apply a cementitious faux endeavor as This is an installmentof used in pool construction. However, coating onto it. This takes technique an ongoing, multi-part series. building the many pool-type skimmers are also and time but is well worth the effort. Be sure to watch for further pond itself. used on ponds. All skimmers have A redwood or faux wood lid also installments in future issues! Many times the relatively unappealing covers — works well and weighs less. ability to hide especially when incorporated into Pool-type skimmers are usually equipment in plain sight aesthetically the landscape design or a formal edge smaller in footprint and easier to place

This pump is hidden in a landscape valve box. This skimmer lid is covered with lath and a cementatious finish.

42 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 43 UV lights and filters This pool sits over a can be hidden settlement tank. together.

Waterfalls make wonderful covers. a stone cover over, but another option when used in formal installations. nal lids, they can be cut in sections and gases to escape. Additionally, the vent flowing directly into the settlement tank. It is fairly easy because these filters are for pool skimmers is a “Pouralid.” faux rocked, or a portion of the lid can creates an easy hand grab for removal usually installed above water level, and Pouralid makes replacement skimmer Tanks and Prefilters be left off altogether if it’s on the back when servicing. A raised pool for a water Biofilters — The Natural surrounding them with the rocks, boul- lids for almost all swimming pool skim- Settlement tanks and in-ground side, away from view. A hinged redwood garden or planter can be constructed over Equipment ders and landscape material to blend lid is another good option. Raised ponds mers available. They look like an upside- prefilters are a little more difficult to part of the tank as long as there is enough Concealing biofilters is where the them into the landscape is a natural solu- with the settlement tanks located closeby down lid with a shallow cavity in the conceal because of their inherent size. room left for easy access to the prefilter or pond industry has always shined. In tion. Currently almost every pond filter or attached to the pond are always more top, which can be filled with whatever Ranging from 2 to 4 feet in diameter, a rotating micro-screen inside it. If a small the early years, Aquascape introduced manufacturer has their own version of visible than tanks placed in-ground. The cement-type deck material matches the stone cover is very difficult and heavy. pool area with plants is built over the a waterfall filter. Many of these come hinged lid can be part of the pond’s edge the concept of the open waterfall filter, surrounding deck. Virtually any faux The few lids available for these larger tank, a 2-inch drain in the bottom with and from that point on our industry has with a spill or weir made of plastic that is finish can be poured and formed in filter tanks are usually just plain, unat- or used as a deck area since occasional access is all that’s necessary. a threaded plug makes for easy cleaning, been hiding biofilters inside waterfalls. unattractive and unnatural-looking. It’s the cavity, making them a good choice tractive plastic. To transform these origi- Cutting the center out of the original lid and creating a vented, domed cover is another way to change the look. Vented lids are important because gases can build Many times the ability to hide equipment in plain sight aesthetically makes or breaks a pond’s appearance. Customers want to see the pond — not what makes it operate.

up inside the tank, creating a smelly situ- ation. Shade cloth comes in a variety of colors, and making a frame and attaching it to the edge of the original lid is time- consuming but doable. A stone finish can be used to camouflage an existing lid, and Biofilters can be covered by planted material. always remember to vent it to allow the

44 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 45 Water Mover box built specifically for them. Fake Variable Frequency Drive Technology Pump rocks of hollow plastic can also be used. Any pump box lid or cover should be The Power of vented and fake rocks should have holes Variable Frequency Drive put in them as vents for a constant flow of cooling air. 4200 GPH / 140 Watts Freestanding, large-diameter UV 2600 GPH / 80 Watts lights can be placed on a slab behind (1 HP =746 Watts) the filters or tubular types can be VFD technology, coupled to mounted off the ground, but it’s always our 550”2 pre-filter equals a challenge. The electrical portion and efficiency and absolute power supply must always be located clog free reliability off the ground to prevent moisture contamination. I have modified several single-tube lights for downflow capa- - 1.5” discharge port - Dual intake for easy satellite intake These Redwood lids are hinged in the center. bility so they could be mounted inside a biofilter with the electrical portion - Small fish and frogs can’t be sucked in relatively easy to cut off the spill, leaving so it’s easy to cover the front half and Lights, Pumps, Action! above the waterline. This works well if - Super efficiency, cuts energy cost in half the biofilter is deep enough to allow for - Pump passes 1/4” solids, pre-filter passes just the clamping section for the liner or build over the top with rocks and plants. External pumps and UV lights are it. UV lights can also be buried in the 3/32” solids polyurea. This allows the waterfall and A shallow planter covering half of the probably the hardest to hide. External ground, with the electrical portion and spill rocks to be built right up to the top is a good way to soften the look of a pumps need to be placed in an efficient bulb access above ground for accessibility. Fountain Well filter’s face for a more natural look. waterfall, allowing succulents or ground location between pond and filters. If Put those finishing touches on a P.O. Box 9791, Towson, MD, 21284 ● 410 821-0022 Waterfall filters generally don’t need cover treatments to flow down around necessary they can be placed in a large, build by getting creative, and you complete access like settlement tanks do, the falls. in-ground landscape valve box or in a [email protected] can make your equipment covers as beautiful and high-quality as the pond itself. a

About the Author

Kent Wallace was born and raised in Las Vegas. Kent spent most of his adult life in the automobile industry at independent shops and dealerships, along with working at his own shop as a race car fabricator at age 24. Then, in 2001 a neigh- bor asked Kent if he could build her a koi pond like the one Kent’s father had. From that point on pond building became his new passion. That first pond he built was submitted to Better Homes & Gardens Magazine and won Best Courtyard Nationwide in their special interest publication. livingwatersolutions.com 702/845-6782

46 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 47 QuickBooks

Cooking (with) the Books Navigating the labyrinth of QuickBooks

by Barbi Holdeman, you more sane than doing it once a week, once The Pond Gnome a month, or — and I know you’re out there — once a year!

ccounting is a necessary evil for all busi- Getting Started — Preferences ness owners. Unless you can afford and Classes to hire someone — and don’t get me startedA on where that can go wrong — you A good way to become familiar with need to know how to at least do the basics. QuickBooks, and make sure that it is set up for Enter QuickBooks, a pretty user-friendly how you’d like to use it, is to set up your prefer- bookkeeping program that doesn’t require you ences. Under “Edit,” choose “Preferences.” Go to go back and make an adjusting entry just through each tab, both for Company Preferences because you transposed a couple of numbers. and My Preferences. Here, you can customize (Being somewhat dyslexic, I really appreciate QuickBooks and get a feel for what it can do that.) I’ve been using QuickBooks for 15 years for you. and have been through many versions. I am At the very top, you will find “Accounting.” currently using Pro 2015. Under the Company Preferences, you will see a QuickBooks has tutorials on all of the basics, category for Class. Check that box! And check so I won’t go into that here. (I recommend you the prompt option, too! And here’s why … check out quickbooks.intuit.com/tutorials.) Classes. This is very important, because using I will say that spending 10 minutes each day Classes will tell you exactly entering your receipts will keep

January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 49 where you’re making money — and where screen and choose “New.” Job Costing in the future. Under “Reports,” click the near future. you’re not. You can’t steer the ship if you Now comes the important part. “Jobs, Times & Mileage” and then “Job In the Budgets area, you can set up Something that goes hand-in-hand don’t have a course! Whenever you enter a receipt, write a Profitability Detail” to get a specific job’s what you expect to pay in each cate- with Classes is job costing. This will tell Our company, The Pond Gnome, is a check or enter an employee’s time on information. There, in black and white, gory, and then run a comparison to you whether or not you made money on a water feature contractor. So we have classes their timesheet, be sure to enter the you will see exactly what happened. Keep see how you’re doing and plan for the set up for the types of installations we do Class to which it belongs. When we first in mind that payroll won’t show up until next month/year/season. Information is as well as all the types of maintenance started using Classes, I went back to the the employee is paid, so that may affect the powerful stuff! that we provide. We even break down our beginning of that year and added a class numbers. Also, I have yet to figure out how annual cleanings into categories (because to every single item so that we could run to make it calculate overhead (an oversight Billable versus Non-Billable in the program, I think), so I calculate that in our climate, we offer two types). The reports for the year and get the informa- Another thing I’d like to point out, using the standard P&L reports, dividing it more detailed you are, the more information we needed. From now on, because because I learned this the hard way, is by the days worked that month, and then tion you will have at your fingertips for you chose this in the Preferences area multiplying it by the number of days on decision-making purposes. earlier, QuickBooks will prompt you to that job. enter a class before a transaction is saved. Using Classes You can override it, but at least you’ll get Financials The Profit & Loss report, for example, So how do you set up Classes? It’s a reminder. This is huge! By using the Reports will tell you exactly how much you’ve easy! First, think about your business and So why do we use Classes? That’s the feature, you can run just about any report spent so far this year or this month on fun part. You can now run a report based what services you provide. You might imaginable, and even create some of your each expense that you have listed in want to jot down a quick list first, just to on those Classes! For example, a P&L by own. After you have run the report, you the Accounts. (Here is where the date get organized. Class will tell you exactly where your can customize it by date, or even add or customization comes in handy.) You can specific project (or maintenance account). Then, in QuickBooks, under “Lists,” money is being made (or not). This is remove a filter. If this customization is also run a Statement of Cash Flows or a choose “Class List.” Click on “Class” powerful stuff, as it gives you the ability You can’t do much about it if you’ve what you want on a regular basis, simply Cash Flow Forecast to give you an idea of down at the bottom and choose “New,” to make adjustments in your business already lost money, but you can use the add it to the Memorized Reports — a big what’s going on in your business at that or simply right-click anywhere on the practices. information to do a better job of bidding time-saver. moment in time, and what to expect in

50 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 51 that “Billable” and “Non-Billable” meant QuickBooks. At the end of the year, you under “Lists,” then “Payroll Item List.” IWGS Winners something very different to me than it can print and mail out all your W-2s QuickBooks will have set some items up did to QuickBooks. Oops. I was marking onto forms in just a few minutes. You already for taxes and such. You can add everything Billable because it was, at least can even set up vendors to be 1099s and things to this list like reimbursements in my mind. They were all costs that went print out those, too. It’s very handy and (specific and general), child support into a billable job, right? Yeah, well, I efficient. Time is money, after all. deductions, bonuses and profit sharing, eventually discovered that I had this long I use timesheets to enter the crew’s et cetera. But you don’t have to try to list of “Unbilled Costs.” Huh? You see, our hours each day. I also use Direct Deposit think of this all at once. You can also Winning company works mostly on a contract basis, for everyone that I can get to sign up add things on a case-by-case basis right so I wasn’t using “Billable” time and costs for it. Yes, it costs a buck and change from the employee’s file under “Payroll 'Amaranthine,' hybridized by Mike Giles, USA the right way. per paycheck, but it’s so much easier. Information,” “Additions, Deductions Waterlilies (Second Place ISG). It’s a really cool system, once you I don’t have to cut checks, and I can and Company Contributions.” You understand it. If you mark something email employees’ pay stubs to them. We simply click in the area and choose “Billable,” QuickBooks flags that as some- happen to like being as paperless as possi- “New” in the drop-down box. Denver hosts colorful, world-class blooms thing that needs to be added to an invoice. ble because we are trying to be a “green” I hope this article has helped clear This is great if you’re doing something company, and every little bit helps. up a few things, or at least given you a that’s T&M, because when you go to make For reimbursements and deductions jump-start on some items. The folks at by the grower (Tamara Kilbane, Senior the invoice, QuickBooks will prompt you on paychecks, you can set those up Intuit are pretty nice, and are usually by Tamara Kilbane, Horticulturist at Denver Botanic Gardens) to add the time & expenses that have accu- very willing to help their customers use Denver Botanic Gardens under careful consideration, an interna- mulated, and you can just add it all to an the software to its fullest potential, so tional panel of 12 judges provided scores invoice without having to keep it in a stack don’t be afraid to call them! Now, go get enver Botanic Gardens in Denver, for each new hybrid in the following cate- on your desk. Honestly, I don’t care for the back to making money! a Colorado served once again as the gories: Flower, Foliage, General Impression way QuickBooks does mark-ups, so I tend growing site for the International and Unique Characteristics. The judges’ to do that manually. Use your Preferences DWaterlily & Water Gardening Society’s annual scores were then combined and the hybrid 'Darjeeling,' hybridized by Florian Henaux, France tab under “Time & Expenses” to control New Waterlily Competition. The contest (Second Place Hardy). this option. I turned mine off, unless About the Author drew entries from waterlily hybridizers around specifically check-marked for T&M. the world. 20 of these new hybrids bloomed in Originally from St. Louis, time to be judged in mid-October. Payroll Missouri, Barbi Holdeman The entries were divided into the Lastly, let’s quickly address payroll. migrated to following categories: Hardy, Tropical and Phoenix in 1977 We use Enhanced Payroll through Intersubgeneric. in an old station QuickBooks. New tax tables are auto- wagon with her Photos were taken of each entry’s first-, matically downloaded, and we can mother, grand- second- and third-day blooms (along with print all of our monthly, quarterly and mother, six cats fourth- and fifth-day blooms for those hybrids annual payroll tax reports right from and two gerbils. with longer-lasting flowers) as well as each She attended second-day bloom with a ruler and each plant Central High School, obtaining her with a yardstick. GED so that she could strike out on After taking the photos and notes provided "Manickam," hybridized by Vasu Manickam, Germany "Valentine," also hybridized by FAN, USA (Second her own at the ripe old age of 16. (First Place Hardy and Second Place Overall). Place Tropical). She’s a bit on the independent and rebellious side. Barbi has completed the Maricopa County Master Gardener training courses and has an Associate’s Degree in Ornamental Horticulture & Landscape Design, a Paralegal Certificate and an Associate Degree in Fashion Design and Apparel Construction. She also speaks fluent sarcasm. As co-owner and administrator of The Pond Gnome, Barbi concentrates her ener- gies on promotion, administration "Morada Bay," hybridized by Florida Aquatic Nopchai Chansilpa of Thailand won the coveted prize of Best New Waterlily of 2015 with his "Srichon." and comic relief. Nurseries, USA (First Place Tropical).

52 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 53 To see full press releases and additional news items, visit winning the coveted prize of Best New www.pondtrademag.com/category/tradenews Trade News Waterlily of 2015 for his stunning entry, “Srichon.” This tropical intersubgeneric waterlily hybrid is the result of crossing a tropical day-blooming waterlily (in the sub-genus Brachyceras) with an Australian waterlily (subgenus Anecphya). This new hybrid boasts large flowers which change color gradually from the first-day bloom to the fifth-day bloom. These flowers are held an average of 8 to 9 inches above the Aqua Logic Inc. Looks to Future with New plant’s compactly arranged green leaves. Facility and New Website This year’s Second Best New Waterlily award went to hybridizer Vasu Manickam’s In 2015 Aqua Logic moved into a new 30,000-square- foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in sunny San hardy waterlily, “Manickam.” This new Diego, California — and decided it was time to give the waterlily has peony-like, pink blooms entire company a facelift to match. This month they are with a blush of yellow on the inner petals. A great look at the contest pond at the IWGS 2015 event. launching their brand-new website to debut their new look Lifegard Aquatics Introduces PG 9000 High-Performance Pump Its high petal count and appealing color and they are really excited about the updated content and receiving the highest number of points in and the Second Best New Waterlily of combination made it a standout in the enhanced features. To complement the popular Quiet One Pump line, Lifegard Aquatics each entry category was awarded first place 2015 went to the entry with the second- contest. “Aqua Logic has always been a company that evolves introduces the new flow rate, energy-efficient, small-footprint — and best of for that category. The entry receiving highest number of points overall. A full listing of the winning entries and and responds to the needs of all our markets, and these all, affordably priced — Lifegard PG 9000 pump. Designed for submersible or the highest overall number of points was The IWGS would like to congratu- the panel of judges can be found on the changes will help us continue to grow along with our external applications such as freshwater ponds, fountains, waterfalls, hydroponic systems, irrigation systems and water features. The PG 9000 features wet rotor/wet named the Best New Waterlily of 2015, late Nopchai Chansilpa of Thailand for IWGS website. a customers,” Aqua Logic president Douglas Russell said. “We want to provide the best possible solutions for a bearing technology that enables cooler running, while the included pre-filter screen whole host of aquatic challenges and remain accessible and handles large particles for less maintenance. Other sizes available in the UL-listed approachable. As a family business, we consider ourselves line of Lifegard PG Pumps include 1600, 2700, 4500, 5300 and 6600. For more friends to our industry, and this year we plan to reach out information and flow charts, contact: Trade News in a big way through blogs, social media pages, newsletters, Lifegard Aquatics online tutorials, trade shows and conferences.” 800/628-8771 Koi enthusiasts love Aqua Logic’s titanium in-line [email protected] www.lifegardaquatics.com Pondliner Wholesale Announces 2016 Water Garden Expo heaters and many take advantage of the other great products Aqua Logic has to offer, from compact, high- Charles Vander Kooi and David Duesing headline David Duesing appears on Pool Masters with Anthony output UV sterilizers to multi-stage filtration sumps and Pondliner Wholesale’s 2016 Water Garden Expo February Archer-Mills. He served as the first president of the National complete skid-mounted life-support systems. As experts Atlantic Water Gardens Introduces the 24-26 at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center in Association of Pond Professionals. He contributed extensively in aquaculture, their holding tanks, bait tank systems with 2016 Product Catalog Shawnee, Oklahoma. to the association’s original educational curriculum and dividers and custom hatchery rack systems have proven certification program, and continues to lead numerous invaluable to koi breeders and wholesalers. Aqua Logic Atlantic Water Gardens is pleased to announce seminars annually for members of the water garden, landscape offers custom fabrication and design, and all their own that their 2016 Product Catalog is now available. design, swimming pool and irrigation industries. Many products are proudly manufactured in the USA and backed Call, fax or email to receive your copy today. Get of his seminars are accredited for professionals, including by the support of their friendly and knowledgeable team. a look at all the new products available in 2016, those offered through Genesis 3, an international forum For further information visit the new www. including Copper finish Scuppers and Splash Rings, the for continuing education and establishing high standards in AquaLogicInc.com and sign up for their e-newsletter or TidalWave Variable Speed Controller, a Pond & Lake Management line watershape design, engineering and construction. call 858/292-4773. and so much more. Visit our website for more information. Some of Aquascape’s biggest names will be facilitating a hands-on pond installation class on February 24, showcasing For further information please contact: innovative design and construction methods that will be James Chubb, National Sales Manager beneficial for professionals at any experience level. 616/914-9953 The next two days will feature 24 educational seminars. Fax: 330/274-8790 Eric Triplett, Demi Fortuna, Kelly Billing, Paul Amos [email protected] and Greg Wittstock are among the industry’s top experts www.atlanticwatergardens.com Charles Vander Kooi has been involved in the construction scheduled to speak. Attendees can also visit with around 25 industry for over four decades as an estimator and upper- manufacturers exhibiting in the trade show and network with management employee of companies as well as professional peers from across the country. speaker and consultant. He has bid over a billion dollars in The Water Garden Expo is free for trade professionals. work over his career and has helped over 1,500 companies in Visit WGExpo.com or call 866/219-3561 to register or for their estimating/bidding systems. more information.

January/February 2016 POND Trade Magazine 55 MARKET Advertisers’ Index Trade News PLACE Aqua Logic, Inc...... 56 Atlantic Water Gardens...... 14 Bassinger Fisheries...... 41 EasyPro’s New 2016 Blackwater Creek Koi Farms, Inc. ....59 Catalog Now Available Cash French...... 56 EasyPro Pond Products of Grant, Danner Manufacturing, Inc...... 2 Michigan has released a new catalog EasyPro Pond Products...... 17 for 2016. They have developed EasyPro Pond Products ...... 30, 31 their product line to offer a large catalog packed with professional Family owned & operated, Fielding Pumps...... 36 and do-it-yourself pond products. 3 generations of award winning Fountain Bleu...... 57 EasyPro is featuring a widely excellence in aquaculture Fountain Well...... 47 expanded line of water treatments (319) 846.2077 GC Tek ...... 51 in 2016 along with new pumps, basins w w w . k l o u b e c k o i . c o m and aeration compressors. Hecht Rubber...... 18 For more information or to request a full-color catalog, call Helix...... 48 800/448-3873 or visit www.easypropondproducts.com. Kasco Marine...... 26 Premium Pond Leaf Nets Kloubec Koi Farm...... 57 wholesale and retail Kodama Koi Farm...... 57 Winter Pond Care Guide Released by P.O. Box 712 KW Solutions ...... 56 Collaboration of Industry-Leading Experts Orchard Park, NY 14127 Little Giant...... 60 Nualgi Ponds has announced the release of a new eBook 716 662-2785 ph/fax Mainland Mart Corp...... 47 titled Winter Pond Care for Professionals. The free eBook [email protected] Maryland Aquatics...... 56 is a collaboration of expert advice gathered from store www.pondnets.com owners, koi champions and pond Matala USA...... 21 maintenance professionals. Learn Microbe-Lift...... 34 tips from professionals for winter KW Solutions, Inc. Niji-Yama Koi Wholesale...... 50 pond preparation in multiple regions as well how-to tips for OASE Living Water...... 22 keeping water healthy throughout www.kodamakoifarm.com Odyssey Systems, Ltd...... 45 the winter months. Outdoor Water Solutions...... 33 “Winter Pond Care for Professionals” includes unique ideas Pentair Aquatic Eco Systems, Inc..... 35 from the professionals for managing Polytank, Inc...... 37 water quality, plants, fish and Pondliner.com...... 3 technology during the Fall/Winter Pond Megastore...... 12 months. Nualgi Ponds' director of marketing, Pond Pro 2000...... 42 Roger Tower, is excited to bring together experts in Contact us for a price list Ponds For Peace...... 7 the field for this eBook. “Based on feedback in our last eBook, 1-808-354-7031 [email protected] Pond World Distributing...... 7 we have made additions to include tips for multiple regions. Pond Zinger...... 46 The winter is a tricky time for managing water quality, and just like in the Spring, it is very important that we prepare early Tsurumi America...... 27 for our Fall maintenance routine. We look forward to hearing Maryland Aquatic more feedback from the community so we can develop the best Nurseries information available.” Don’t miss out on this ■ Each pond is different and the water/air temperatures are Wetland Plants Market Place advertising opportunity. Extend your national visibility - ■ never changing at the same time. The tips in this guide are not Wetland Carpet See our website: ■ advertise in guaranteed to work with every pond, but Nualgi actively works Floating Wetlands www.pondtrademag.com/advertise/marketplace with pond owners for success in their individual habitats by using ■ Ornamental Pond Plants TMTM natural solutions and provides educational resources to help with ■ Consulting POND algae overgrowth. Jarrettsville, Md., (410) 692-4171 TRADE Visit the Nualgi website to download Winter Pond Care www.marylandaquatic.com Call Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921 Guide: www.nualgiponds.com/winter-pond-care-guide. or [email protected]

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