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
