Water Garden: Liners, Plants & Fish

A serene water garden is often the highlight of a backyard, its design seamlessly integrates natural beauty with landscaping. Essential features include a liner, creating waterproof foundation for aquatic life. Thoughtful planting and the selection of diverse pond plants are crucial for the health of the water garden’s ecosystem. The addition of fish introduces movement, color, and a natural element that enhances the tranquil atmosphere of the water garden.

Creating Your Backyard Oasis: Dive into the Wonderful World of Garden Ponds!

Ever dreamt of transforming your backyard into a tranquil escape? Imagine the gentle gurgle of water, the vibrant colors of aquatic plants, and the playful darting of fish. A garden pond isn’t just a water feature; it’s a portal to relaxation, a haven for wildlife, and a stunning focal point that elevates your entire outdoor space. Think of it as your own personal slice of paradise!

Why a pond, you ask? Well, beyond the sheer aesthetic appeal, a garden pond offers a therapeutic escape from the daily grind. Imagine unwinding after a long day, sitting by your pond, watching the sunset reflect on the water’s surface. Stress? What stress? Plus, it’s a fantastic way to attract beneficial insects, frogs, and even the occasional visiting bird, turning your yard into a miniature ecosystem.

This isn’t just about digging a hole and filling it with water! This guide is your roadmap to creating a thriving garden pond, from the initial planning stages to choosing the right inhabitants and keeping everything healthy and balanced. We’ll break down each step, making the process approachable and even a little fun!

But before we grab our shovels, let’s talk about responsible pond keeping. A garden pond is a living ecosystem, and like any ecosystem, it requires careful planning and ongoing care. We’ll emphasize the importance of understanding the delicate balance of your pond and how to maintain it for the well-being of its inhabitants. After all, happy fish and plants make for a happy pond owner!

Planning and Design: Laying the Foundation for Success

Alright, so you’re itching to dive into building your backyard paradise! Hold your horses (or should I say, goldfish?) for just a sec. Before you grab that shovel and start digging like you’re on a mission to China, let’s talk planning. Trust me, a little forethought now saves you a whole heap of headaches (and backaches) later.

Size & Depth: Getting the Dimensions Right

First up, let’s think about size and depth. Picture this: a tiny puddle trying to house a family of koi. Not ideal, right? The size of your pond directly affects the ecosystem it can support. A larger pond means more space for plants, more stable water temperatures, and happier inhabitants.

Now, let’s talk depth. The depth of your pond is important too, especially if you plan on having fish. They need enough depth to survive the winter freeze (if you live in a cold climate) and to escape predators. As a general rule, aim for at least 2-3 feet deep in the deepest part of the pond, especially if you are thinking of keeping fish and live in the Northern Hemisphere.

Shape: Formal vs. Natural – Which Vibe Are You After?

Next, think about the shape. Do you envision a sleek, modern, geometric design? Or are you more of a naturalistic, free-flowing kind of person? Formal geometric ponds can look fantastic in well-manicured gardens. But if you’re going for a more natural look, think curves, irregular edges, and maybe even a shallow “beach” area. This will influence the types of materials you use, like concrete or a flexible pond liner.

Location, Location, Location: Sun, Shade, and Tree Trouble

Location is key. Think about sun exposure. Most pond plants need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day to thrive. But too much sun can lead to algae blooms (more on that later). You may also want to provide some shade for your fish, especially during the hottest part of the day. A strategically placed tree or shrub can do the trick.

Speaking of trees, be mindful of their proximity to your pond. Falling leaves can decompose in the water, leading to sludge buildup and poor water quality. Nobody wants that! If you have a lot of trees nearby, you might need to invest in a pond skimmer or be prepared for regular leaf removal.

Landscaping: Seamless Integration

Your pond shouldn’t look like it just landed in your backyard from outer space. Think about how it will integrate with the surrounding landscape. Use rocks, plants, and other features to create a natural transition. Consider the overall style of your garden and choose materials and designs that complement it.

Water Features: Adding a Splash of Fun

Want to add some wow factor? Consider incorporating water features like fountains, waterfalls, or streams. These not only look amazing but also help to aerate the water, which is essential for a healthy pond ecosystem. Fountains and waterfalls can increase oxygen levels in the water which keep fish alive and happy.

Draw a Plan & Mark the Area: Don’t Wing It!

Now, before you even think about picking up that shovel, grab some paper and a pen and draw a plan. This doesn’t have to be a work of art, but it should give you a clear idea of the pond’s dimensions, shape, and location.

Once you’re happy with your plan, mark the area in your yard using spray paint, rope, or even just some sticks. This will give you a visual representation of the pond’s footprint and help you avoid any surprises when you start digging.

By taking the time to plan and design your pond carefully, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and thriving backyard oasis!

Essential Pond Components: Building It Right

Okay, so you’ve got your dream pond all planned out. Time to get down to the nitty-gritty – the stuff that’s gonna make it all work. Think of this section as your pond-building shopping list. Get these essentials right, and you’ll be sipping iced tea by your backyard oasis in no time!

Liners: The Foundation of Your Pond

• Liners are the unsung heroes, holding all that lovely water. You’ve got a few choices:

  • EPDM Rubber: The gold standard. Super durable, flexible, and fish-friendly. It’s like the all-weather tire of pond liners – can handle pretty much anything. Cons: a bit pricier.

  • PVC: A budget-friendly option. Easier to work with than EPDM, but not as long-lasting. Think of it as the reliable sedan – gets the job done without breaking the bank, but might not handle off-roading. Cons: Can become brittle over time and may not be as environmentally friendly.

  • Clay: For the truly natural pond enthusiast. This creates a completely sealed natural environment. Cons: Requires specialized knowledge and installation, and isn’t suitable for all climates.

Underlayment: Liner’s Best Friend

• Think of underlayment as a padded bra for your liner. It’s usually a geotextile fabric that goes underneath the liner to protect it from rocks, roots, and anything else lurking in the soil that might want to poke a hole. Don’t skimp on this – a little extra protection can save you a HUGE headache (and a lot of water) down the road.

Edging: The Finishing Touch

• Edging does more than just look pretty (though it does that, too!). It defines your pond’s border, preventing soil from washing in and keeping your carefully chosen plants in their place. Use rocks, pavers, or even plants to create a seamless transition between your pond and the rest of your garden. This is where you can really let your creativity shine!

Pumps: The Heart of Circulation

• Your pump is the heart of your pond, keeping the water moving and oxygenated. Choosing the right size is crucial – too small, and the water will stagnate; too big, and you’ll have a water park instead of a peaceful pond. Consider energy efficiency – you don’t want your pond to double your electricity bill.

Filters: Keeping Things Clean

• Filters are your pond’s kidneys, removing debris and harmful substances from the water. You’ll typically need a combination of:

  • Mechanical Filters: These catch physical debris like leaves and algae. Think of them as the lint trap in your dryer.
  • Biological Filters: These use beneficial bacteria to break down harmful ammonia and nitrites. It’s like having a tiny sewage treatment plant in your pond.
  • UV Filters: These use ultraviolet light to kill algae and keep the water clear. Think of it as a sunburn for unwanted algae.

Pipes & Fittings: The Plumbing

• Don’t underestimate the importance of good ***pipes*** *and ***fittings***! They’re what connect everything together, ensuring proper water flow. Make sure you get the right sizes and materials for your pump and filter system.

Skimmers: Surface Patrol

• Skimmers act like little vacuums, removing leaves, pollen, and other debris from the surface before they sink and decompose. This keeps your pond looking clean and reduces the amount of gunk that ends up in your filter.

Bottom Drains: Deep Cleaning

• For larger ponds, bottom drains are a lifesaver. They suck up sediment and debris that settles on the bottom, making it much easier to keep your pond clean. It’s like having a built-in pond vacuum.

Lighting: Setting the Mood

• Lighting can transform your pond into a magical oasis at night. Underwater lights create a stunning effect, while landscape lighting highlights the surrounding plants and rocks. Just be sure to use pond-safe lights that won’t harm your fish or plants.

Rocks & Gravel: Beauty and Function

• Rocks and gravel aren’t just for decoration! They also provide surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize, helping to keep your water clean. Plus, they give your fish places to hide and explore.

Pond Ecology and Water Quality: The Heart of a Healthy Pond

It’s all connected, man! Just like that groovy 70’s tune, your pond is a complex web of interconnectedness. Think of it as a tiny, self-contained world where everything relies on everything else. Understanding this ecosystem is key to keeping your pond happy and healthy. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Algae: Friend or Foe?

Ah, algae… the bane of many a pond owner’s existence! But hold on a sec – not all algae is bad.

• Green Water Algae: This is what turns your pond into pea soup. Too much sunlight and nutrients can cause a massive algae bloom. Solutions? Reduce sunlight, use UV sterilizers, or add plants that compete for nutrients.
• String Algae (Hair Algae): Those slimy, hair-like strands. You can remove it manually (gloves are your friend!), but also consider adding barley straw or using algaecides carefully.
• Beneficial Algae: Believe it or not, some algae is good! It produces oxygen and provides food for tiny critters. A little bit is okay, just don’t let it take over.

Beneficial Bacteria: Tiny Heroes

These microscopic heroes are the unsung champions of your pond. They are the driving force behind the nitrogen cycle, a process that breaks down harmful waste products.

• Nitrification: Beneficial bacteria convert ammonia (toxic to fish) into nitrites, and then into nitrates. Nitrates are less harmful and can be used by plants as fertilizer. It’s like a tiny waste-management system.
• Sludge Reduction: Some bacteria also help break down sludge (decomposed organic matter) at the bottom of your pond, keeping it clean and clear.

pH: Finding the Sweet Spot

pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline your water is. Most pond fish and plants thrive in a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0.

• Too high or too low, and your aquatic buddies will be stressed. You can use testing kits to monitor pH and adjust it with pH buffers if needed.

Ammonia, Nitrites, and Nitrates: The Nitrogen Cycle Explained

These are the key players in the nitrogen cycle, and understanding their roles is crucial.

• Ammonia: A highly toxic waste product produced by fish. Keep it as close to zero as possible.
• Nitrites: Another toxic compound that bacteria convert from ammonia. Levels should also be close to zero.
• Nitrates: The final product of the nitrogen cycle. Less toxic, but high levels can still cause problems. Regular water changes help keep nitrates in check.

Oxygen Levels: Breathe Easy

Fish need oxygen to breathe, just like us!

• Ensure adequate oxygenation through surface agitation (fountains, waterfalls) and aeration (air pumps and airstones). Hot weather reduces oxygen levels, so extra aeration might be needed during the summer.

Water Hardness: Minerals Matter

Water hardness refers to the mineral content of your water, primarily calcium and magnesium.

• Some fish and plants prefer harder water, while others prefer softer water. Testing kits can measure water hardness, and you can adjust it with mineral additives or by using rainwater.

Water Clarity: Seeing is Believing

Nobody wants a murky pond!

• Good filtration, regular water changes, and a healthy balance of plants and bacteria are key to maintaining clear water. Avoid overfeeding fish, as uneaten food can cloud the water.

Sludge: The Bottom of the Matter

Sludge is the build-up of decomposed organic matter (leaves, fish waste, uneaten food) at the bottom of your pond.

• Too much sludge can lead to poor water quality and algae blooms. Regularly remove debris, use beneficial bacteria, and consider a pond vacuum to clean the bottom.

Testing Kits: Your Pond’s Report Card

Regular water testing is essential for monitoring water quality and identifying potential problems before they become serious.

• Invest in a good-quality testing kit that measures pH, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and other important parameters. Test your water regularly (at least once a month) and keep a log of your results. Your fish will thank you for it!

Fish: Fin-tastic Friends (But Choose Wisely!)

• Koi: The living jewels of the pond world. These fellas need big ponds (think hundreds of gallons per fish) and pristine water. They’re like aquatic puppies – they’ll even learn to eat from your hand! But, be warned, a fully grown koi can be a hefty investment, and they can also uproot plants, so plan accordingly.

• Goldfish: The classic pond choice and great for beginners! Comets, Shubunkins, and Fantails are all popular options. They’re more forgiving of less-than-perfect water conditions than Koi, but they still need plenty of space and good filtration. Don’t overcrowd!

• Other Suitable Species: Think about native fish species. Some minnows or small sunfish can thrive in ponds and provide natural insect control. Always check your local regulations before introducing any new fish to your pond.

• Stocking Levels: A general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish per gallon of water. However, this varies wildly depending on the type of fish, filtration, and plant life in your pond. Err on the side of less is more!

• Quarantine Procedures: Vital! Before introducing any new fish to your established pond, keep them in a separate quarantine tank for at least 2-4 weeks. Watch for signs of illness (lethargy, clamped fins, sores) and treat them accordingly. This prevents introducing diseases that could wipe out your existing fish population.

Plants: The Green Scene (and Oxygen Machines!)

• Water Lilies: The queens of the pond. These beautiful plants provide shade for fish, help control algae growth, and offer a stunning display of flowers. Choose varieties suited to your pond’s size.

• Lotus: For a touch of the exotic, consider a lotus. They need lots of sun and a larger pot. Their unique leaves and blooms are well worth the effort.

• Submerged Varieties (Oxygenators): Elodea, Anacharis, and Hornwort are your underwater heroes. They release oxygen into the water, which is essential for fish and beneficial bacteria. They also help to absorb excess nutrients, reducing algae growth.

• Marginal Plants: Think of these as the pond’s landscaping. Irises, cattails (use cautiously, they can be invasive!), and marsh marigolds add beauty and help blend the pond into the surrounding garden.

Invertebrates: The Little Helpers (and Critters!)

• Snails: The unsung heroes of algae control. Japanese trapdoor snails are a great choice as they don’t reproduce as rapidly as some other varieties. Avoid mystery snails as they can sometimes eat plants.

• Frogs: A welcome addition to any pond. They eat insects and add a natural, whimsical touch. Provide them with plenty of hiding places (rocks, plants) near the water’s edge.

• Insects: Dragonflies, damselflies, and other insects are part of the natural food chain in your pond. They also help control mosquito populations. Encourage a balanced ecosystem and avoid using pesticides near your pond.

Amphibians: Creating a Froggy Paradise

• Welcoming Environment: Provide shallow areas for frogs to easily enter and exit the water. Rocks, logs, and plants offer cover and basking spots. Avoid using chemicals near your pond, as amphibians are very sensitive to pollutants.

Wildlife: Managing the Guests (Welcome and Unwelcome)

• Ducks: Charming, but they can also make a mess and eat your plants. Consider a floating plant protector or netting to protect vulnerable plants.

• Herons: Elegant but deadly. These birds are skilled fish hunters. Netting, decoys (heron or dog), or motion-activated sprinklers can deter them.

• Dragonflies: The aerial acrobats of the pond! Encourage them by providing plenty of plants for them to lay their eggs on.

Responsible Sourcing: Be a Good Pond Citizen!

• Buy fish and plants from reputable sources to avoid introducing diseases or invasive species.

• Never release unwanted fish or plants into the wild. This can have devastating consequences for local ecosystems. Rehome them responsibly or contact your local fish and wildlife agency for advice.

Pond Maintenance: Keeping Your Pond Thriving

Keeping your pond sparkling isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a healthy, happy home for all your aquatic critters. Think of it as a weekly spa day—for your pond! Regular upkeep prevents problems before they start, ensuring your little ecosystem thrives. Let’s dive in (metaphorically, of course—unless you’re wearing waders!).

Water Changes: The Refresh Button

Imagine living in a bathtub where the water never gets changed. Yuck! That’s what it’s like for your fish if you skip water changes. Regular partial water changes are like hitting the refresh button for your pond.

• Why? They help remove built-up nitrates and other nasties, keeping the water balanced and your finned friends happy.
• How often? Aim for 10-20% every week or two, depending on your pond’s size and inhabitants.
• Pro Tip: Use a dechlorinator to remove chlorine and chloramine from tap water. Fish are sensitive to these chemicals!

Debris Removal: Say Goodbye to Gunk

Leaves, twigs, and other organic matter can turn your pond into a swampy mess as they decompose. Think of debris removal as your pond’s spring cleaning—all year round!

• Why? Decaying matter releases harmful gases and depletes oxygen, which isn’t ideal for your aquatic life.
• Tools of the Trade: A pond net or skimmer is your best friend here.
• Seasonal Strategy: Pay extra attention in the fall when leaves are dropping like crazy. Consider covering your pond with netting to catch leaves before they sink.

Algae Control: Battling the Green Monster

Algae—sometimes it’s just unsightly, other times it’s a full-blown takeover! Effective algae control keeps your pond clear and balanced.

• Manual Removal: Grab a trusty pond rake or net and start scooping! This is great for string algae.
• Chemical Treatments: Use with caution! Always follow the instructions carefully and choose pond-safe options. Algaecides can be effective, but they’re usually a temporary fix.
• UV Sterilizers: These zap algae as water passes through, keeping green water at bay. They’re like the superheroes of pond clarity.
• Beneficial Bacteria: Add some good bacteria to outcompete the algae for nutrients. It’s the eco-friendly approach!

Filter Cleaning: Keeping Things Flowing

Your filter is the unsung hero of your pond, working tirelessly to remove debris and keep the water clean. But like any hero, it needs a little maintenance. Regular filter cleaning ensures it keeps doing its job.

• How Often? Check your filter regularly and clean it when it starts to look clogged.
• The Process: Rinse filter pads or sponges in pond water (never tap water, which can kill beneficial bacteria).
• Pump Maintenance: While you’re at it, inspect and clean your pump. A clean pump means better water flow!

Winterizing: Preparing for the Big Chill

As winter approaches, it’s time to tuck your pond in for a long nap. Proper winterizing ensures your fish and plants survive the cold months.

• Remove Debris: Give your pond a thorough cleaning to remove as much organic matter as possible.
• Pond Heater or De-Icer: Keep a small area of the pond ice-free to allow for gas exchange. This prevents toxic gases from building up under the ice.
• Deep Freeze Strategies: Move sensitive plants indoors and stop feeding your fish when water temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). Their metabolism slows down, and they won’t need as much food.

Troubleshooting Common Pond Problems: Identifying and Resolving Issues

Let’s face it, even the most idyllic garden ponds can hit a snag now and then. Don’t panic! A little pond TLC can go a long way. Consider this section your pond-side first aid kit. We’ll go through some common problems.

Algae Blooms: Green Soup No One Ordered

We’ve all been there – you wake up one morning, and your crystal-clear pond has transformed into a murky green swamp. Ugh. That’s an algae bloom, folks, and it’s usually caused by too many nutrients and too much sunlight.

• Solution: First, reduce the amount of direct sunlight your pond gets by adding floating plants like water lilies. Second, invest in a UV sterilizer to zap those algae cells. Regular partial water changes and good filtration will also help keep the green monster at bay.

Fish Diseases: When Your Fin-Friends Feel Under the Weather

If your fish are acting weird – lethargic, flashing (rubbing against objects), or sporting unusual spots or growths – they might be sick. Quick action is key!

• Solution: Immediately isolate the sick fish in a quarantine tank. Research the specific symptoms to diagnose the disease and administer appropriate medication. Salt baths can also help with some ailments. Prevention is always better than cure, so maintain good water quality and avoid overcrowding.

Predators: Keeping Pesky Poachers Away

Herons, raccoons, and even neighborhood cats might see your pond as an all-you-can-eat buffet. Protect your precious fish!

• Solution: Install netting over the pond to deter birds. Motion-activated sprinklers can scare away land predators. Providing hiding places for your fish, like caves or dense plants, also gives them a safe haven.

Leaks: When Your Pond Starts Shrinking

Discovering that your pond is losing water can be alarming. A leak is a likely culprit, especially if you have a liner pond.

• Solution: Check the edges of the liner first, as this is where leaks are most common. If you can’t find the leak visually, try lowering the water level gradually to see where the water stops draining. Patch the liner with a repair kit designed for pond liners.

Poor Water Quality: The Invisible Threat

Your pond water might look clear, but hidden dangers could lurk beneath the surface. High ammonia, nitrite, or nitrate levels can be toxic to fish.

• Solution: Regularly test your water using a test kit. Perform partial water changes to dilute pollutants. Ensure your filter is working efficiently to remove waste. Adding beneficial bacteria can also help break down harmful substances.

Overpopulation: Too Many Fish in the Sea (or Pond)

An overcrowded pond can lead to poor water quality, stressed fish, and increased disease risk.

• Solution: If you have too many fish, consider rehoming some of them to a larger pond or finding a new home with a fellow pond enthusiast. Avoid overfeeding, as uneaten food contributes to waste buildup.

Oxygen Depletion: Gasping for Air

Fish need oxygen to survive, and low oxygen levels can be deadly, especially during hot weather.

• Solution: Increase oxygen levels by adding an aerator or fountain. Agitating the water surface helps oxygen dissolve into the water. Ensure you have plenty of aquatic plants, as they produce oxygen during the day.

Mosquitoes: Uninvited Buzzing Guests

A stagnant pond can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which nobody wants.

• Solution: Introduce mosquito-eating fish, such as mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis), or use mosquito dunks containing Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti). These are safe for fish and other aquatic life but deadly to mosquito larvae. Ensure the water is circulating to prevent stagnant areas.

Chemical Treatments: When and How to Use Them (Safely!)

Okay, let’s talk chemicals. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Chemicals? In my beautiful, natural pond? Never!” And honestly, 99% of the time, I’m right there with you. But sometimes, folks, things get a little sideways, and you might need a gentle nudge from a bottled friend to get your pond back on track. Think of it like this: sometimes even organic gardens need a little help, right?

Water Treatments for pH Adjustment

So, your pH is out of whack? Maybe it’s too high, maybe it’s too low. Either way, your fish are probably looking at you like, “Hey, buddy, what’s with the extreme acidity (or alkalinity)?” It’s like serving them lemonade made with vinegar (or baking soda!). Products exist that can help gently raise or lower pH. Remember that stability is key! You do not want to drastically swing the pH up and down, because that is more harmful for your ecosystem than having a slightly off pH level.

Water Treatments for Ammonia Binding

Ammonia. The four-letter word of pond keeping (well, technically seven, but you get the idea). If your pond is suddenly showing high ammonia levels, it’s basically a toxic wasteland for your fish. Ammonia binding treatments can quickly neutralize the ammonia, buying you valuable time to figure out what went wrong (usually a filter issue or overfeeding) and get your beneficial bacteria back in business.

WARNING: This is Where We Get Serious (for Real!)

Listen up, because I’m about to drop some serious knowledge. When it comes to chemical treatments, you gotta treat ’em like you would any medication.

• Always, always, ALWAYS read the label. I’m talking, read it like it’s a Shakespearean sonnet. Know exactly what you’re putting in your pond and how much.
• Pond-Safe is Key: Just because a chemical is safe for swimming pools doesn’t mean it’s safe for your fishies. Make absolutely sure it’s specifically designed for ponds.
• Overdoing it is a No-No: More is NOT better. In fact, it’s usually worse. Overdosing can send your whole ecosystem into a tailspin.
• Test, Test, Test: Before you add anything, know your water parameters. And after you add something, test again to see if it’s working and if you’ve reached your intended goal.

In short, chemicals should be a last resort, a rescue mission, not a regular part of your pond care routine. Used carefully and sparingly, they can be a lifesaver. But used recklessly, they can turn your beautiful oasis into a toxic soup. You’ve been warned!

Equipment Spotlight: Tools for Easier Pond Maintenance

Okay, let’s face it, sometimes pond maintenance feels like a chore. But what if I told you there are gadgets out there designed to make your life easier and your pond happier? Think of these as your secret weapons in the battle against muck and missed feedings! It’s time to get a little nerdy about pond tech!

Pond Vacuums: Sucking Up the Sludge

Ever wish you could just magically wave a wand and make all that gunk at the bottom of your pond disappear? Well, a pond vacuum is pretty darn close. Imagine a regular vacuum, but designed for underwater use. These babies suck up all the sludge, fallen leaves, and other nasty debris that accumulates over time, keeping your water crystal clear and your fish breathing easy. No more murky depths! Plus, think of it as giving your pond a spa day! You can get a pond vacuum at a local store like Lowes, Home Depot, or any local aquatic garden store.

Automatic Fish Feeders: Never Miss a Meal

Going on vacation? Or maybe you’re just a little forgetful (we’ve all been there!) An automatic fish feeder is a lifesaver. You can program these to dispense the perfect amount of food at set times, ensuring your finned friends never go hungry. Plus, you can set a feeding schedule if you are away. Some feeders even come with fancy features like remote control via your smartphone. Talk about high-tech snacking!

So, next time you’re gazing out at what you think is a lake, take a closer look. It might just be a glorified puddle—or, you know, most of the time, a pond. Either way, enjoy the view!