costs of setting up a pond?
 

hey,

I've always wanted a koi pond, and i'm entertaining the idea of getting one set up.

first off, cost will be a factor.

For those of you with ponds, what would you estimate was your set up cost and for what size pond? if you wish, you may PM the info.

i'd want a pond probably 15-10'L x 6-10'W x 6'D
I read 6' deep in GVRD is ideal for koi in our climate.

any tips?
local forums?
any contacts?

thanks!

A few things -

As far as forums go, depending on what type of pond you want, for a koi pond with mostly mechanical filtration, have a look at www.koiphen.com
For a garden pond (mostly wetland filter type plant filtration), have a look at www.gardenpondforum.com

6 feet deep seems overkill for your climate. It can be difficult to provide good circulation at that depth, servicing a pond that deep requires draining the pond somewhat, and that deep of a pond will add to liner costs. (I'm assuming you're thinking of a liner pond, not a concrete one)

45 mil EDPM liner plus underlay will probably run about $1/sq. ft.

Laguna pumps are a great choice for a submersible. They are energy efficient.
If you decide to use an external pump, they are easier to service, but can get expensive depending on your setup.

A lot depends on what you want for a pond.

Agreed that 6' is over kill for your area. Mine is only 3' deep and we get down to -20 only for 1-2 weeks though. I have not had a casualty yet due to freezing. I use a de-icing ring when it starts freezing over just to keep an open hole in the ice for gas exchange. I also use a Laguna pump with the submersible filter and am very happy with both.
PUMP
http://www.lagunaponds.com/en_us/lag...fall-pump-kit/
FILTER
http://www.lagunaponds.com/en_us/lag...-filter-pt505/

Live plants greatly help with filtering the water and adding some food for the koi. I have never had to suck out the bottom or do a water change on my pond with my setup. The only losses I have had is from raccoons which I have dealt with.
Good luck and enjoy your pond.

Thanks for the info.

I'll do some browsing on those forums.

I'm guessing liner vs concrete basically comes down to concrete being more more durable, but at a cost.