We’ve done and heard about everything when it comes to naturalizing ponds. We’re constantly searching for methods to merge our ponds into the environment, from employing native flora to locating driftwood.
The land bridge, on the other hand, has to be our favorite project. We built a land bridge that included a flagstone patio, dining area, two waterfalls, two streams, and, of course, a pond.
The Halls wanted a water feature to beautify their backyard. Alpine taught the family about land bridges after learning about them from Tony Alcala and Lucas Henry of Aquascape Designs Inc. The initial plan called for a wooden bridge, but they agreed to let us build a land bridge instead.
To construct a land bridge, follow these steps:
- Select and highlight a location that connects two portions of the pond. Two 20-inch lengths of drain tile were utilized.
- Excavate the space and install the drain tile. To allow for ornamental gravel or sod covers, the top of the pipe should be a few inches below grade.
- Position the drain tile such that the water level is 3 to 6 inches below the opening’s top, allowing debris and surface water to pass through.
- Once the liner is in place, fill the land bridge region with 2 to 4 inches of gravel to cushion the impact from the drain tile’s edges.
- For further support and protection, place narrow bits of stone beneath the pipe’s edges. Then start piling rocks onto your bridge.
- Finish your rockwork and use stone to conceal the drain tile’s edges.
- Use ornamental stone, mulch, or sod to cover the ridge. When it was all said and done, the Halls had a backyard refuge complete with a pond that entices you into a feeling of seclusion. Their new ‘living room’ is a serene mix of streams and waterfalls that all work together to offer the perfect respite from the daily grind.