How do I Build a Duck Pond?

Building a duck pond is task that involves excavating the area that is determined to be the best placement choice, and then applying drainage pipes and replanting around the edges. There are so many different styles and sizes of ponds that can be built, but it all comes down to how big the area is and whether fish are going to be placed in it. A duck pond needs to be located in area that will not interfere with any sewer or utility lines, and if possible, should be on fairly level ground. Other than that, a duck pond can be built with a few tools and some time to complete the labor.

The first step in building a duck pond is laying out the area where it will be. Pound stakes along the outer perimeter and run yellow string from each stake to the next, forming the outer shape that the pond will be. If using a shovel, dig around the edges to mark the exact location. If using machinery, such as a hydraulic backhoe, begin digging from one side and work across the entire section.

Excavating the area is the next step that has to be completed when building a duck pond. Whether digging by hand or with the help of machinery, follow the outer edge markings and remove all of the soil and rocks within the area. The majority of small duck ponds only need to be dug down a foot (30.48 centimeters) or so, unless fish placed in it. In this case, go deeper to allow room for them to swim. After this has been done, a plastic pond liner needs to be set into place, securing it down around the edges by digging small trenches and then staking it into place.

The most time consuming portion of building a duck pond is now completed. Around the outer edges of the pond some drainage pipes need to be installed to ensure that water from rain and run-off flows into the it. Place basic drainage pipes all around it, making sure that the holes face towards the pond. Cover them with soil and then fill the pond with water.

The duck pond should now be full of water, so the clean up process can begin. Remove all of the soil and rock that was removed and plant new grass, or plants, around the outer perimeter. If a fence or concrete walkway is going to be built around it, then the task will need to be done before planting. Once the vegetation has grown the duck pond is completed. Now the job becomes luring the ducks to use it, which can be accomplished in many different ways, including planting decoys and spreading some food around the area.