4
PLACEMENT OF THE FILTERFALLS AND SKIMMER
Now that you have determined the size of the pond, waterfalls and filter system, it is time to
determine the placement of the components.
Whenever possible, it is best to position the Skimmer and FilterFalls directly across from each
other at opposite ends of the pond. This setup creates a current that pulls surface debris into
the Skimmer. If the Skimmer and FilterFalls are placed too close together, or the pond has
an unusual shape, dead areas can occur. These dead areas can be eliminated with the use of
multiple falls or multiple skimmers.
STREAMBED CONSTRUCTION
Using proper streambed construction techniques can limit the transitional water needed to fill
the streambed and enables the system to function optimally. Transitional water is determined
by the height that the weir rock extends above the liner at the spillway opening. Maintaining
the shortest distance possible between the top of the weir rock and the liner is a crucial
component to a properly functioning water garden. Figure 3 displays two examples of proper
construction techniques for minimal transitional water.
Figure 4 is an example of improper streambed construction. Stone, gravel and foam can be
combined to make a barrier and create a waterfall, but that barrier will never be watertight.
When the pump is turned off, the water will always drain down to the highest point of the liner.
Improper construction greatly increases the water in transition.
Figure 3.
Top of liner
Top of water
Transitional Water
Top of liner
Top of water
Transitional Water
Figure 4.
Top of liner
Top of water
Transitional
Water