Backyard ponds provide many benefits, including natural, relaxing and scenic landscape features that offer a habitat for a range of wildlife. They are also large projects that require a significant amount of planning and maintenance.

If you consider installing a backyard pond, weigh the pros and cons before you dig to ensure that it’s the right feature for both your yard and your lifestyle.

The most obvious benefit of a backyard pond is the visual aesthetic it provides. A pond instantly adds interest to the landscape, particularly when it includes colorful fish and plants. Additional features such as waterfalls, statues or rock borders can be eye-catching as well. A pond that is lit with underwater lighting also can add visual interest at night.