Pond Thoughts

[beerfish]

So in a month or two, we'll be getting our two hives worth of bees in the yard. They need a water source, and while a bucket with some corks floating in it will work, I'm seeing it as an excuse to build a pond, because... well, why not?

I can run a trench to the garage for power, but does anyone here with pond experience (KATHY) have any general advice? I probably want some fish, and the ability to expand to koi later, but otherwise, I'm not really tied to anything in particular. Just looking for general thoughts, ideas, etc.

 

[edd]

did you get a hive last summer and how did it do?

 

[beerfish]

We ended up not being able to get one as we got involved a bit too late in the season. We did keep a hive outside this winter to check position and the relative snow amount in the area that we're keeping the hives in so that we have a stronger chance of overwintering the bees next year. We have 2 hives ready and bees coming in April.

 

[TimberTDI]

did you get a hive last summer and how did it do?

+1

Can you point to some good reading about the subject?

 

[beerfish]

+1

Can you point to some good reading about the subject?

This is a great book on beekeeping:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/1592536077/?tag=reefs04-20

And this is the group that I've learned a ton from and go to regular meetings with. You should join, or find a local group if you're interested in keeping bees.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/132611553454405/

 

[Cu455]

Not really sure what you mean my upgrade for koi. If it is because of size it will be very hard to expand the pond after it's built.

Do you have a location chosen yet or a size? If it's going to be small mosquito fish or flagtails will work. If it's a little bigger sunfish and perch. If you want that koi feel go with comet and fancy goldfish.

 

[beerfish]

Not really sure what you mean my upgrade for koi. If it is because of size it will be very hard to expand the pond after it's built.

Do you have a location chosen yet or a size? If it's going to be small mosquito fish or flagtails will work. If it's a little bigger sunfish and perch. If you want that koi feel go with comet and fancy goldfish.

It's my understanding that koi require more size and some higher end equipment, which I'm not ready for now. I have a location in mind, but I can go big or small in the spot I've picked.

I guess basically what I'm asking is, what would you tell a complete pond noob? Should I do a lined pond, or get a pre-fab plastic one to start? Are there advantages to either? Should I plan on any special equipment?

I know a lot about keeping fish, but I have no experience keeping them outdoors.

 

[bigsink]

For a pond go as big and as deep as you can to start with. If you have goldfish or koi, it is in your best interest to incorporate a bottom drain. Not a necessity, but probably the most important piece of equipment IMHO.

 

[bigsink]

Best site for advice is koiphen.com