I think I have something in mind like your vortex filters except I call them
settling basins. I was going to use plastic barrels. The problem I see
with vortex filters is the price. $400 each. I had to clean my pump weekly
in the old pond. I want to catch the debris before the pump this time. If
I taper the bottom of the barrel with some concrete I think it would work
the same as an expensive vortex filter.