Belmont MA – Pondless Waterfall Conversion

Belmont MA Pond to Pondless Waterfall Conversion

Pondless Waterfalls – A Safer alternative to a Pond for Children

This Belmont, Massachusetts water feature began as an 8′ × 10′ ecosystem pond, but the homeowners ultimately decided they wanted to eliminate the standing water due to safety concerns for their young children.

Rather than completely removing the feature, we transformed the existing pond into a pondless waterfall system, preserving much of the original character of the landscape while creating a safer, lower-maintenance water feature.
The existing pond basin was converted into an underground water reservoir using an Aquascape Pondless Vault and AquaBlox. This system stores the water beneath the surface, eliminating the open body of standing water while still providing the volume needed to continuously circulate the waterfalls and stream. We were able to modify the shape of the basin to make this feature sustainable, generally not needing to be topped off due to evaporation, but refilled by rain.

We also partially rebuilt the existing stream, keeping the original two waterfalls while refreshing and sealing them to improve their structure and establish proper water flow. Two additional waterfalls were incorporated into the stream to create more movement, sound, and visual interest throughout the feature. With the goal being a very shallow stream for safety, we were able to keep a very small pooling look in the existing stream. This kept a natural feel while leaving enough water for birds to enjoy. We are able to make a pondless waterfall in all shapes and sizes, with deep interactive streams, or shallow babbling brook style like this project called for. The modular nature of the Aquascape system gives us a framework that is reliable and lets us design each project to be tailored to the clients individual wants.
The result is a completely reimagined water feature that maintains the natural look and sound of a traditional stream and waterfall, without the open pond that had become a safety concern for the homeowners.

Project Highlights:
Converted an existing 8′ × 10′ pond into a pondless waterfall
Eliminated standing water for improved safety
Installed an Aquascape Pondless Vault and AquaBlox reservoir
Rebuilt and sealed two existing waterfalls
Added two new waterfalls for additional movement and visual interest
Refreshed the existing stream while preserving its original character
Improved water flow throughout the entire feature

So how did we do?

“We are so happy we chose Mike with New England Ponds and Patios. We had a beautiful koi pond in our backyard when we moved in, but it wasn’t safe for our toddler. Mike came to the house and provided a consultation and explained the different options. We ultimately decided on a “Pondless” water feature which preserved the stream and waterfalls while keeping my toddler safe (no standing water). Mike is obviously very passionate about what he does and worked hard to make everything perfect“

— Jessica.