Here lie dragons!




A client’s pond developed a leak over the winter.  We left it alone at the time as there was likely to be various creatures hibernating in the bottom and it was a bit cold to be splashing around in a pond trying to find a leak.

As the weather warmed up and the rain stopped it became clear the leak was a fundamental one as the pond gradually dried out.  It was going to need relining.

The day arrived and armed with copious amounts of old newspapers and the new lining we got ready to start.  The original plan had been to put the new lining on top of the old one and the pond had been emptied in readiness.  However, heavy rain the night before meant there were a few inches of water in the bottom so I began baling.

“Hang on! There’s a newt in here.  I’ll pop it in the bucket with the water lily.”

Baling resumed.  “I’ve found another one!”

As we baled the pond we found more and more newts.  Carefully opening the folds in the old liner revealed more hidden away.  Finally all folds had been investigated and the last bit of water removed.  A quick check under the old lining “There’s more newts under here!”

The old lining was removed and left spread out in case we had missed any  more.

Newspapers in place ready for the new lining
Newspapers in place ready for the new lining

 

Removing the old lining revealed the original protective under lining which was intact so left in place.  A thick layer of newspapers was then spread over it to ensure there were no sharp edges on which to lay the new lining.  The new lining was put in the hole ensuring a large margin all round.  The new lining will sink into the hole as it fills with water and can take a day or two to settle do don’t be too quick to trim the excess.

 

 

 

Exploring their new environment
Exploring their new environment

 

As we began to refill the pond the waterlily was put in and our precious cargo of newts gently returned to the pond.  Initially they hid under the lily but as the pond filled they began to explore the make-over to their home.

 

 

 

 

15 minutes later the pond was filled, the plants and rocks back in place and the newts set about building their nests; breeding season is upon us and the pond relined in the nick of time.

Refilled pond with plants
The pond full of water and with the plants back in place
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