Let's all avoid pontificating about water gardens and what is wrong in the world. That will fill and endless forum and not get the first pond fixed.
We have the very rare opportunity to help soemeone who wants to do it right. Lets all make the most of it.
Mike, what do you want to know or want comments on.
recommended depth?
dimensioning of bottom drains to pond size/shape?
advantage of gravity fed versus pump fed filters
different types of filters and their media
You already have a list of koi pond reference material (books, mags, videos)
Speak up!