Assignment A - Water Features Answer Key
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1. Assignment B – Water Features
- List four reasons for adding water to a landscape.
- Water adds relaxing sound that helps block noise.
- It brings movement and reflections , which make the yard feel more alive.
- Water attracts wildlife , like birds and frogs.
- It can act as a focal point and improve the overall look of the landscape.
- 2.
Difference between a formal and informal water feature
- + pictures Formal Water Feature
A formal water feature uses straight lines, geometric shapes, and symmetry .
It usually looks neat and intentional, often matching structured architecture like houses or patios.
Example Image (Formal)
2. Informal Water Feature
An informal feature looks more natural , with curves and uneven edges.
It blends into the environment so it feels like it could’ve always been there.
Example Image (Informal)
- 3.
Four criteria to consider when planning water feature placement
- Sunlight – lilies need 6 hours of sun, but too much sun can cause algae.
- Utilities – must be close enough to power and water.
- Trees and debris – avoid spots under big trees because leaves will fall in.
- Safety & visibility – should be in a place where it can be seen and is safe for people walking around.
3. 4.
Pros and cons of flexible liner options a. Butyl Rubber
Pros
- Very durable
- Can be box-welded into custom shapes
Cons
- More expensive
- Harder to find in big rolls b. PVC
Pros
- Cheap
- Easy to handle
Cons
- Breaks down in sunlight unless covered
- Not as long-lasting; becomes brittle c. EPDM
Pros
- Most durable, stays flexible even at –70°C
- Very popular and easy to install
4. Cons:
- Cannot be welded into shapes
- Must make sure it's fish-safe (not roofing EPDM)
- 5.
Guidelines for balancing an ornamental water feature
- Add beneficial bacteria or some native pond water to help start the ecosystem.
- Cover 50–75% of the surface with lilies or floating plants to reduce sun exposure.
- Add 3–5 submerged plants per square metre to use up nutrients that algae would take.
- Avoid using chemicals like fertilizers or pesticides near the pond.
- Only replace 10% of the water at a time to avoid shocking the ecosystem.
- Be patient — natural balancing takes 6–8 weeks .
- Volume of water feature: 8 × 12 ft, 3 ft deep
Formula
L × W × D × 7.5 = U.S. gallons 8 × 12 = 96 96 × 3
= 288 288 × 7.5 = 2160 U.S. gallons ✔ Correct answer: B. 2160
5. 7. Volume in imperial gallons: 9 ft diameter, 4 ft deep
For a circular pond
- Area
= π r² Diameter = 9 → radius = 4.5 ft Area = 3.14 × (4.5²)
= 3.14 × 20.25 ≈ 63.6 sq ft Volume in cubic ft = 63.6 × 4 = 254.4
Convert cubic feet → imperial gallons 1 cubic foot
= 6.24 imperial gallons 254.4 × 6.24 ≈ 1588.9 imperial gallons
✔ Correct answer: A. 1589 8. Research your local by-laws (Edmonton)
In Edmonton, any decorative pond or water feature deeper than 600 mm (60 cm) is considered a potential safety hazard, and may require fencing similar to swimming pool rules.
You must also check for underground utilities through
- Alberta
One-Call before digging.
Backyard ponds cannot drain into storm sewers, and the water feature must be entirely on your property.
Links
- Edmonton by-laws (Swimming Pool Bylaw — used for deeper ponds): https://edmonton.ca/public-files/assets/document?path=PDF/SwimmingPoolBylaw.pdf
- Safety + One-Call: https://utilitysafety.ca/
6. 9. Research local or Canada-wide suppliers
Supplier 1: Salisbury Greenhouse (Sherwood Park / Edmonton) https://salisburygreenhouse.com/ Sells pumps, liners (including EPDM), aquatic plants, and pond treatments.
Good for getting flexible liners and basic equipment locally.
Supplier 2: The Pond Shop (Ottawa, Canada-wide shipping) https://thepondshop.ca/
- Carries
EPDM liners, filtration systems, skimmers, biofalls, pumps, and water treatments.
Good for ordering more specialized water feature equipment.
Supplier 3: Canadian Tire (Canada-wide) https://canadiantire.ca They sell basic pond supplies like small pumps, preformed liners, tubing, and water treatments.
Good for smaller backyard projects and affordable equipment.