• Pond reconstruction in Chaska, Minnesota
• Completed in 2023
• $16,000 project cost
• Approximate size: 8 × 10 ft
• Full rebuild of existing pond and waterfall
• EPDM liner and underlayment installation
• Aquascape BioFalls biological filter
• Aquascape Skimmer 1000 installation
• Natural stone waterfall with large boulders
• Woodland-style planting and integration

Woodland pond with natural stone waterfall and Aquascape BioFalls system in Chaska, Minnesota

Existing pond condition

This project is a full reconstruction of a small backyard pond located in a wooded setting in Chaska, MN.

The original pond had several structural and functional issues typical for older DIY installations. The soil was uneven, the liner was outdated, and the stone used was undersized and poorly supported.

These conditions led to instability, inefficient water flow, and an overall lack of long-term reliability.

Pond excavation with regraded and stabilized soil for wetland filtration system in Chaska, Minnesota

Demolition and site preparation

The existing pond and waterfall were completely removed to expose all problem areas and allow for a proper rebuild.

The site was regraded and stabilized to create a solid base for the new structure and to ensure proper water flow throughout the system.

EPDM liner installation over underlayment in reconstructed pond in Chaska, Minnesota

Pond Reconstruction and system installation

A new underlayment and a single-piece EPDM liner were installed to provide a durable and leak-free foundation.

The system was rebuilt using proven Aquascape components, including a BioFalls filter for biological filtration and a Skimmer 1000 for effective surface debris removal.

The waterfall was constructed using large character boulders to create a natural flow pattern and a more stable structure.

Waterfall structure assembly with natural boulders and BioFalls filter box in backyard pond construction in Minnesota

Edge detailing and planting

The pond edge was reworked using larger stone to achieve a clean, natural transition between water and surrounding landscape.

Aquatic plants were added to support natural filtration and help the pond establish as a balanced ecosystem over time.

Setting waterfall boulders with excavator and shaping stream flow in backyard pond construction in Minnesota

Final pond stage with aquatic plants, gravel, and natural stone around waterfall

The final result

The result is a quiet, secluded woodland pond that feels naturally integrated into its surroundings. The waterfall adds movement and sound, while the improved structure and filtration ensure long-term performance with minimal maintenance.

This project demonstrates how a small, outdated pond can be transformed into a stable, natural water feature without increasing its footprint.