OK Mickey, I sat back in the early portion of this thread (and the one on the Shack) in hopes of seeing someone apply the system approach hilighted in KOI USA. Butttttttt, I guess I'll have to do it.
I work in 5000 gallon increments (approximate). Why? Because it becomes the lowest cost per gallon in the system approach that I use. As an example, 12; diameter pond, 6' deep is roughly 5000. That size and gallonage are two of the key components. I think all will agree that a diffuser dome, 4" gravity fed will keep a 12' diameter floor "clean." So there is one of the logical reasons for the 12' diameter. Now, as for the depth. Although you do not have a climate (Florida) which dictates substantial depths below a frost line, the incremental costs of going with a 6' depth verses a minimum of 3' becomes minimal in the totsal pond cost. The equipment is the same, 1 diffuser drain, 1 skimmer (I prefer gravity fed), 2 pumps and filtration systems on both...and UV if desired. Those are the major costs and whether 2500 gallons at 3' of depth or 5000 gallons at 6' of depth, the flow rates, pump sizing and filtration capacities could be equal.
Yes, there would be "some" savings at 3' of depth but with those savings come other factors such as water temperature stability. So, for maximizing the footprint at minimal additional costs, I would recommend the 6' depth.
Now, for your area, you really only need to go down about 2; with the
top of the footer at 18" below grade (minimal acceptable depth for a footer). Thus the pond could then be built up 2.5 feet for the 3' of minimum depth utilizing reinforced concrete block for structural integrity. Excavate deeper for the desired 6' depth. Go on a "Luke" hunt for savings on these materials. For a round pond such as this, I would recommend 2, "sets" of T PRs (making them reversible). A water fall is not "needed" and thus could be "cut" from a minimal design. If you go with the 6' depth, I would suggest a midlevel pick-up stubbed out for future added filtration should you wish to go beyond the 10 mature koi that this design (at 6' depth) could easily accomidate.
You could utilize a liner and not even pour a concrete floor but could remove the liner later, pour the floor and then seal with your choice of CIM, Sani Tred, Polyurea or other sealant of your choice later. As for equipment? You choice of many filters out there or even DIY. Myself, for the 2500 gallon version I would go with a baby nexus and the 5000 version the larger nexus. For heavy stocking, a baby nexus or even larger nexus could be added to the gravity skimmer circuit. Again, many filters out there and DIY stuff, just make sure it will handle a 3000 - 4500 gph rate with minimal drop and can accomidate media that stays clean and has sufficient surface area for your desired stocking densities.
The shape doesn't have to be round either but TPR and drain placement are dependent on the shape choosen.
Here's a rough sketch I made for some friends down in Dallas a few years back to give you a rough idea.
Although you are in Florida, Your pond isn't being launched to the moon so I don't think you will need NASA's involvement?
Steve
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12-23-2007
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