What Does an Ecosystem Pond Cost?

If you are like me, you enjoy surrounding yourself with nature and being outdoors. Perhaps you are considering an ecosystem pond but you are wondering about an ecosystem pond cost. Let's take a look at what an ecosystem pond is, the Epiphany Ponds and Landscaping ecosystem pond components, ecosystem pond costs, and why these ponds are worth the investment.

Enjoy the natural beauty of an ecosystem pond in your own back yard.

What is an Ecosystem Pond?

An ecosystem pond is "a complete low-maintenance system that works with Mother Nature to provide food, shelter, and safety to the wildlife around it". While an ecosystem pond is like other ponds, it is specifically designed to sustain and support plants and other wildlife (without a lot of upkeep on your part). And though this type of pond does support wildlife, it still differs from other ponds. For example, someone wishing to have a Koi pond must include components like bottom drains or sediment chambers.

Keep reading to discover what components make up an ecosystem pond and, of course, the ecosystem pond cost.

Here is an example of a 8’ x 11’ Ecosystem Pond created by Epiphany Ponds and Landscaping .

The Clearwater Components

Clearwater's ecosystem ponds are created with the following components:

1. A Filtration System

Clearwater makes use of 2 filtration systems in their ecosystem ponds: a biological filter and a mechanical filter.

For biological filtering, Clearwater uses the Aquascape Biofalls Filter. Check out the video below to learn more about this filter and how it removes those excess nutrients that cause a buildup of algae.

For the mechanical filter, Clearwater uses a Pond Skimmer which pre-filters the water and houses the pump. The skimmer collects debris from the surface of your pond and helps you with your pond maintenance.

2. Recirculating System

Depending on the size of your pond, Clearwater will recommend a pump used to circulate the water and keep the oxygen levels optimized for the health of plants and fish.

3. Aquatic Plants

Aquatic plants are essential for the health of your ecosystem pond as they act as natural filters. They feed off of excess nutrients that aid in algae growth.

Waterlilies are a classic aquatic plant for ponds, and the frogs love them, too!

4. Rocks and Gravel

While rocks and gravel help to protect your pond liner, they also provide surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow on. In return, this bacteria helps balance your ecosystem.

5. Fish

Fish provide entertainment for everyone, especially kids! These fish may even become pets to you and your family. While fish are entertaining, they also reduce algae growth in your pond by feeding on it and other organisms on your pond's floor.

Note: If you do decide to install an ecosystem pond, start in the Fall so that your pond has time to settle before Winter and then any Spring rains. You’ll also have time to work on your pond in stages before the Summer when you’ll just want to sit back and enjoy it.

Kids and adults alike enjoy watching fish swim and feed.

Ecosystem Pond Cost

For a complete ecosystem pond, you are looking at between $6,000 and $12,500 or more. Keep in mind that these prices reflect package deals that include fieldstone boards and streams.

An 11’ x 16’ Ecosystem Pond illuminated.

Why an Ecosystem Pond is Worth the Investment

While an ecosystem pond cost might make you pause, it is truly worth the investment if you have the means. Here are some of the benefits of an ecosystem pond:

1. Beauty: Who doesn't love water, plants, and animals? Having a pond in your yard is a lovely aesthetic which adds value to your property. For those who can't travel, having a backyard oasis gives you that stay-cation you're probably in need of during these stressful times.

2. Environmentally Friendly: Having an ecosystem pond provides a safe and natural habitation for many creatures. Frogs, Birds, Fish, and plants will appreciate this beautiful setting to call home.

3. Home Entertainment: With everyone home during lockdowns unable to travel, now is the time people are investing in their own homes and yards. Taking care of plants and animals gives you healthy outdoor activities to get involved in and entertainment for the kids. Ecosystem ponds are also a safe place for kids to splash around and be curious!

4. Science Education: An ecosystem pond provides young children with the opportunity to learn about nature and to observe how ecosystems work throughout the seasons.

Have fun with your children observing the life cycles of your ecosystem pond.

Proudly serving Eastern Ontario, Clearwater Creations is pleased to help you with the planning, installing, and maintenance of your own ecosystem pond. They have been building award-winning ponds and water features since 2011. Contact Epiphany today to plan your pond or Book Your On-Site Consultation.