Shannon,
We started with a definite rectangular area and wanted to maximize
the water capacity, and we wanted raised sides to keep out the huge
amount of leaves that were blowing into our original ponds. So we
chose a formal style for our current pond. We dug the hole about two
thirds of the finished depth, and the cinder blocks that extend above
the ground level make up the rest of the depth. So, there's one
advantage right off - less digging. The raised sides are also
considered safer, which matters when your pond isn't fenced. After we
dug the hole, we hired some guys to come in and build a 'tank' out of
cinder block, so the row that extends above ground level doesn't just
sit on top of the ground, it is part of the pond walls. The bare block
is faced with some inexpensive but really pretty ceramic tiles. A row
of rock is set on the top and gives a nice mixed media look. There is
a concrete floor that is reinforced in the middle where the fountain
sits. That consists of a cinder block pedestal, allowing for the
pipes to enter from below the urn that makes the fountain. The
pedestal is just about an inch or two below the water level, and a
large urn sits on top and the water is pumped up into the bottom and
runs out the top and back in to the pond. The pedestal doesn't show
because we wrapped it in liner. The drain hole that was in the urn to
start with wasn't wide enough, so we rented a concrete bit and drilled
it out bigger to accommodate the pipe. A valve at the top of the pipe
allows us to adjust the height of the water that bubbles up out of the
fountain and runs over the sides. As soon as we get our camera back
from the shop, I'll send you some pics or post them or something.
Hope his helps. If I wasn't clear on any of this, feel free to post,
but the email connected with this google account is wrong.

Ann
Hi all,

We had an informal in ground pond at our old house. The ground water
level at our new house has made that a really BAD idea, so we are
looking for ideas for a formal raised pond. If anyone can point us at
some good web sites with ideas or at good "formal pond" book or two, I
would be very greatfull.


Thanks,

Shannon