So you want a pond...

[Mugwump]

Here's a thread on one guys journey to renovate his.....

http://diyfishkeepers.com/forum/showthread.php?1506-Pond-project-2012

[Barb]

I haven't had time to read this article yet, but will later on.  My koi pond was like pea soup until 2 weeks ago when I got a new bulb ($60) for my UV light.  Now it is crystal clear, we can see the fish for the first time in months, and I can see the bottom of the pond, 3' deep.  Happy, happy and a well spent $60!
Barb

[Mugwump]

I hadn't considered a UV light....how large a unit is required??...What wattage is the new bulb?...bigger better??.....I have a pump, just looking for the right vessel...

[Barb]

I have an 18 watt unit.  There are lots of UV lights, expensive to begin with but you only need to replace the bulb once a year, that is all they last.  This is the only way I can control green water, I have tried everything else.  My pond is close to 2000 gal.  A pond of 1000 or less can use the 10W unit which costs way less.  Do you have a pond Jon?
Barb

[Mugwump]

I have an 18 watt unit.  There are lots of UV lights, expensive to begin with but you only need to replace the bulb once a year, that is all they last.  This is the only way I can control green water, I have tried everything else.  My pond is close to 2000 gal.  A pond of 1000 or less can use the 10W unit which costs way less.  Do you have a pond Jon?
Barb

No, not at this time...I'm considering one for grow out....

[Mugwump]

Looking at big tubs for outside use....the metal cattle troughs look like the most economical....??

[Barb]

Only use metal if you plan to put a rubber EPDM pond liner in it.  I have know people who use the 100 gal, maybe more, heavy black plastic horse troughs, may be made by Rubbermaid.  They can sit on top of the ground, or be sunk into it.
Barb

[BallAquatics]

TSC has a nice selection of "plastic" stock tanks..... 15 to 625 gallon.

http://www.tractorsupply.com/en/store/tuff-stuff-products-heavy-duty-oval-tank-110-gal

I have heard the Rubber Maid tanks are prone to cracking around the drain plug???

Dennis

[Mugwump]

Only use metal if you plan to put a rubber EPDM pond liner in it.  I have know people who use the 100 gal, maybe more, heavy black plastic horse troughs, may be made by Rubbermaid.  They can sit on top of the ground, or be sunk into it.
Barb

I didn't think that the galvanized metal leeched....??...but you're probably right, better safe than sorry..