Advice on starting a small pond in the yard for a first time beginner

https://empressofdirt.net/advice-for-starting-a-new-garden-pond/

Best not to be under trees. Here are some great sites for you to study and get some ideas.

https://empressofdirt.net/advice-for-starting-a-new-garden-pond/

https://aquariumtidings.com/how-to-build-a-pond-a-beginners-guide-to-building-the-perfect-backyard-pond/

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/projects/how-to-build-a-small-pond.htm

http://www.jackmcneary.com/html/beginners_pond_page.htm

Have fun and keep us posted!

https://aquariumtidings.com/how-to-build-a-pond-a-beginners-guide-to-building-the-perfect-backyard-pond/

Melody, since you are first time pond enthusiast, I am guessing that you have to buy nearly everything. And since this is the case, I would ask the pros at the pond supply store to evaluate your potential site (photos will help a lot) and suggest the best location, materials, fish to stock, etc.. This is a potentially expensive hobby so you really need guidance before spending so much.

I had a pond in the sun and it was a nightmare. Algae grew out of control (from the direct sunshine) and the filter clogged up every 2 days. I also had fish and water lilies in the pond and needed to keep it running in the winter because of the fish. If I was to do it over again (as I got rid of the pond), I would have put it in a shady area and just had water only. If you do get fish, ensure that wildlife won't be able to get at them.

My boyfriend has a water only pond in the shade but each year it leaks which necessitates repairs every spring.

Show photos when finished! Also, you may want to put some kind of protective barrier over it (like chicken wire) to keep animals and birds away from a free dinner!