Varsity Mudpond

[stephen]

The pond is 130 ft long, 125 ft wide (maximum width) and has a depth between 9.5-11.5 ft. The average depth is approximately 11 ft. It contains approximately 1,036,000 US gallons of water.

Currently it is housing 38 koi giving it a stocking density of 27,263 gallons per koi.

[stephen]

The pond bottom is lined with over 10 tons of sodium bentonite (pics 1 & 2)

The seawall (bulkhead) is constructed with 16-18 ft Shore Guard series 750 vinyl panels. There is a series of "Timber Guard" front walers around the wall. 2 x 8 timber was used for the rear wales. Tie backs consist of 3/4" x 20 ft galvonized rods placed every 5 ft the length of the wall connected to 10" x 10' timber deadmen. The cap is synthetic boards secured with stainless steel screws.

[stephen]

The only filtration consists of 4 EasyPro PS2 skimmers all located on the west side of the pond. These units are 42"L x 20"W x 30"H and have 16" wide water inlets. They have huge debris nets which do a good job with the leaves.

The skimmers are plumbed with 4" PVC to 2 Speck 4 HP pumps which each pump 400 gpm. They pump the water to the top of the twin streams.

[stephen]

Aeration is provided by Great Lakes Aeration System DA2AW. http://www.aquaticeco.com/subcategories/2798/Great-Lakes-Aeration-Systems/

[stephen]

Additional aeration is provided by a Kasco 2 HP KF202-200 floating fountain. It has 5 different nozzles , each for a different display pattern. http://www.aquaticeco.com/subcategories/3776/Floating-Fountains-by-Kasco

Fountain lighting is provided by a Kasco L3752 brass-cased halogen lighting kit.

[stephen]

The main water supply is a high flo artesian well. It is adjustable from 0-175 gpm via ball valves. This water contains hydrogen sulfide. It is routed to one of the skimmers via 4" PVC. It mixes with the other skimmer water and travels 100 ft to the top of the streams where it is degassed by the streams and various falls before it enters the pond.

[stephen]

There is also a direct 2" municipal water feed capable of delivering 160 gpm.

[stephen]

The pond level can be adjusted by the 4" expansion coupling that has been installed.

[stephen]

The deepest part of the pond (11.5 ft) has a 4" strainer at the end of 4" PVC pipe that is plumbed underground about 75 ft to a pumping station. Here it can quickly be connected to a 4" trash pump that pumps 600 gpm. The pond bottom depth is slanted from 9.5 -11.5 ft. This will allow the water to be pumped down and force the fish to one end making netting easier.

[stephen]

Addition aeration is provides by twin streams and various waterfalls.

[stephen]

A main feature of the pond is the island.

[Koiguy1]

AS my grand's would say "That is off the Chain" I think that means something good

[Marilyn]

One million gallons :Drogar-Shock(LBG): boggles my mind.

Gorgeous falls, really stunning! :bow: Absolutely beautiful as always.

[Skye]

I'm speechless. :bow: :cool:

[sworley]

that is outstandingly beautiful! The falls are gorgeous! Is that your house beside the falls? Lovely setting!

[stephen]

that is outstandingly beautiful! The falls are gorgeous! Is that your house beside the falls? Lovely setting!

We are having that house built but our main residence is across the street.

[clearwater]

Simply amazing Stephen.....Picture Perfect.....A lot of thinking and time....Great Job.....

[stephen]

Simply amazing Stephen.....Picture Perfect.....A lot of thinking and time....Great Job.....


Thank you. We have been working hard on it since the 1st week of Jan, 2007.

[gander]

Too pretty for words to describe.

[gray cat]

Too pretty for words to describe.


The only word that comes to my mind is AWESOME!!!:punk1: :punk1: :punk1: :punk1: :punk1:

[Russell Peters]

The pond level can be adjusted by the 4" expansion coupling that has been installed.


Now that's a good idea, using a repair coupling for the over flow adjustment.

[Flounder]

Unbelievable!!!

How much land do you have around for these mud ponds?

How many of the Varsity crew will be in here?

[Keith N]

Stephen - That must be amazing to see in person...Did you design/layout everything yourself?

Keith

[Gene]

Things sure have changed around there. :yes:

[tnovak]

I'm packed and on my way, will be there in 2 hours!

[birdman]

Now that's a good idea, using a repair coupling for the over flow adjustment.
Yes it is, I use flaired Fernco couplings that I can slide up and down the pipe.

[birdman]

Very nice Steve. I remember when you started, all the set backs and red tape you had to deal with. I'm glad you made it through that all. It looks as good as any park anywhere.
I also for one recognize the thought and effort you put into this, such as using the waterfall for de gassing the H2S, the rain water over flow, and the BD with trash pump for pumping out the pond. All very well thought out.
You two can be proud of this little piece of Paradise.

[Prelude]

Wow, that is/was such a project. You know all what you were going to do and add? Or did you have help? I don't think I'd ever be able to plan such a huge undertaking. Everything is so specific and exact, it's just perfect. It does look like a park, very nicely manicured park. So where's the hotel overlooking the pond? I want a waterfront view for vacation :D:

[phoman]

speechless..... it looks like a park/resort pond. Very impressive.

[stephen]

Unbelievable!!!

How much land do you have around for these mud ponds?

How many of the Varsity crew will be in here?

6.5 acres.

About half of them are in there now. I also have a few:rolleyes: new ones coming in from Russell Peters. Most of them will go directly in there after I Q them.

[stephen]

Wow, that is/was such a project. You know all what you were going to do and add? Or did you have help? I don't think I'd ever be able to plan such a huge undertaking. Everything is so specific and exact, it's just perfect. It does look like a park, very nicely manicured park. So where's the hotel overlooking the pond? I want a waterfront view for vacation :D:

We have been working on it for almost 2 years. Here is a pic of it from day one. It was a jungle. Here is a thread describing it all. http://www.koiphen.com/forums/showthread.php?t=49359

[Mississauga Ponder]

do you plan to clear the pond annually like other mud ponds? does it need to be cleaned and "re clayed" periodically?

[Midorigoi]

Wow, two years? That is really quick compared to the amount of work you got done! Interesting fact: Some of the seaworld dolphin tanks are one million gallons too.

Your koi are so lucky to have that size of a pond!!! :yes:

[stephen]

do you plan to clear the pond annually like other mud ponds? does it need to be cleaned and "re clayed" periodically?

Hopefully I won't have to clean it for a couple of years or so. I left access for the bobcat:cool3:

[darion6]

The pond is 120 ft long, 115 ft wide (maximum width) and has a depth between 9.5-11.5 ft. The average depth is approximately 11 ft. It contains approximately 1,036,000 US gallons of water.

You are a koi-keeping god!!:bow: :bow: :bow:

[stephen]

Stephen - That must be amazing to see in person...Did you design/layout everything yourself?

Keith

Mary & I:yes:

[stephen]

Things sure have changed around there. :yes:

Ya think:confused: :confused: :confused: :D:

[Mississauga Ponder]

Hopefully I won't have to clean it for a couple of years or so. I left access for the bobcat:cool3:

how'd you know when you have to clean it? would there be any indication or maybe water parameter that would say when it's time to clean? i guess because you're continually adding fresh water it will take a long time depending on the load and spawning that may happen.

it would be very interesting to find how'd the koi would develop in this pond. as always, i'm certain you'd take pictures of koi that's going in and when it will be 'harvested'. maybe an experiment/comparison of relatively similar koi can go here and another batch to your other pond to compare the result. and then for the same period exchange 'home' and find out what would happen.

this project is just incredible. very well planned and excellent execution. i wonder if this gone over budget as originally planned as any other pond build :) or maybe, with your resources, it was build-as-you-go from a financial perspective.

i wish i'd have a chance to see this 'park/resort' in the near future.

[stephen]

how'd you know when you have to clean it? would there be any indication or maybe water parameter that would say when it's time to clean? i guess because you're continually adding fresh water it will take a long time depending on the load and spawning that may happen.

it would be very interesting to find how'd the koi would develop in this pond. as always, i'm certain you'd take pictures of koi that's going in and when it will be 'harvested'. maybe an experiment/comparison of relatively similar koi can go here and another batch to your other pond to compare the result. and then for the same period exchange 'home' and find out what would happen.

this project is just incredible. very well planned and excellent execution. i wonder if this gone over budget as originally planned as any other pond build :) or maybe, with your resources, it was build-as-you-go from a financial perspective.

i wish i'd have a chance to see this 'park/resort' in the near future.

One thing that will help is my 4 skimmers to remove the leaves before they sink. Also it will be fairly lightly stocked. I will know when it is time to clean.

[Ethan25]

You didn't meter in the water stephen? You should be ashamed of yourself.


did you test the water with your tetra test strips?

:-)

[stephen]

You didn't meter in the water stephen? You should be ashamed of yourself.


Yes I did:yes:

[LilHoover]

Paradise for koi, and koi lovers. How many fish will you place in there?

[Steve Nguyen]

how many ponds do you have? did you have to hire an accountant to keep track of your fish? :) would love to see pictures of your fish catalog someday if you have it. thanks for sharing.

Steve


(http://www.koiphen.com/forums/showthread.php?t=87804)

[kgt1223]

What a journey!!!! You are both amazing. Cant wait to see this in person.

[stephen]

What a journey!!!! You are both amazing. Cant wait to see this in person.

Anytime my friend:punk1: :punk1:

[Aussies5]

Stephen and Mary, you have created a paradise for yourselves and your fish. Of course, you just had to show those pictures again of the rocks and waterfalls, you know how I am green with envy. Not really, you worked hard in your business and you earned what you have, enjoy it to the max every day. It really is a shame that more people cannot see your creation in person, I know you are very generous with your time if someone wants to come and see but there are so many of us who are too far away to do that. As fantastic as the pictures are, I can only imagine what it looks like in person. As someone else said AWESOME!

You have added to your Koi collection a lot lately. You have put some of the fish from your Varsity pond into the mud pond. Does that mean you are considering showing your Koi again?

[stephen]

Paradise for koi, and koi lovers. How many fish will you place in there?

I really don't know. I imagine there will be some spawning I will have to deal with.

[stephen]

how many ponds do you have? did you have to hire an accountant to keep track of your fish? :) would love to see pictures of your fish catalog someday if you have it. thanks for sharing.

Steve

8:cool3:

[Ryan S.]

Thats pretty amazine bro :cool:

I think you can probably go several years then lime and till it with a low stocking rate. Are you worried about keeping gators out of it, fence the entire place in, etc?

[stephen]

Thats pretty amazine bro :cool:

I think you can probably go several years then lime and till it with a low stocking rate. Are you worried about keeping gators out of it, fence the entire place in, etc?

We have had 2 gators so far. I kind of liked them. We didn't have any fish in there at the time so after a week or so they left on their own. Now that there are fish in it, I would have them removed.

[Gene]

Stephen, who would be assigned the task of removing the gators.

RUN MARY, RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN, IF STEPHEN MENTIONS GATORS, GET IN YOUR CAR AND DRIVE AWAY IMMEDIATELY, YOU DO NOT WANT TO HEAR WHAT HE WANTS YOU TO DO.:eek1: :eek1: :eek1:

Mary would just make pets of them. :d:

[d.koi]

wow amaising I wish I could see it in person. As dose everybody els

[stephen]

wow amaising I wish I could see it in person. As dose everybody els


Thank you:cool3:

[jbt114]

Beautiful.

BUT.... Lose the "No Trespassing" sign on the cabin.

Chris

[Russell Peters]

Beautiful.

BUT.... Lose the "No Trespassing" sign on the cabin.

Chris


It's still under construction.:yes:

[stephen]

Beautiful.

BUT.... Lose the "No Trespassing" sign on the cabin.

Chris

:D: We have tons of people everyday checking the place out. A couple of days ago there were 2 van loads of people there. They walk thru the cabin,etc. I ask them, Can I help you:confused: :confused: They say "we're just looking around".

[geraldlim]

They think it is a new park!

[stephen]

They think it is a new park!

Yep:yes:

[Russell Peters]

Yep:yes:

Looks like you need some of them "Gaurd Gators".
:muffy: :muffy: :muffy:

[jbt114]

:D: We have tons of people everyday checking the place out. A couple of days ago there were 2 van loads of people there. They walk thru the cabin,etc. I ask them, Can I help you:confused: :confused: They say "we're just looking around".

Need some security?

I'm out of work...

Chris

[stephen]

how many ponds do you have? did you have to hire an accountant to keep track of your fish? :) would love to see pictures of your fish catalog someday if you have it. thanks for sharing.

Steve


(http://www.koiphen.com/forums/showthread.php?t=87804)

Here are most of them http://www.koiphen.com/forums/showthread.php?t=87804

[stephen]

Just snapped

[Midorigoi]

!!!!!!WOW!!!!!!
:punk1: :cool: :clap: :bow:

[Lynne]

That is Koi heaven!:yes:

[PapaBear]

Well, it's almost finished. Time for the well deserved break from all the hard work (that Mary did most of ;)), spend a little time in the cabin, and enjoy the fruits of your labors.

That just leaves one question...



































Whatcha gonna do next??? ;)

[megatron]

It is "Excellent", "marvelous" and "Speechless" :eek1: :eek1: :eek1: :bow:

[stephen]

snapped today

[tyco4357]

That picture you snapped is my idea of a pond...wow. All those flowers really make a beautiful show. I could sit there for hours. I just made it my wallpaper.

[Russell Peters]

snapped today


So Stephen, did you get Mary to climb a tree to get those above ground shots?

[stephen]

So Stephen, did you get Mary to climb a tree to get those above ground shots?


:yes:

[Marie]

The entire place is just absolutely beautiful!!! Just as I expected when you began this adventure, it would be.

[stephen]

The entire place is just absolutely beautiful!!! Just as I expected when you began this adventure, it would be.

Thank You. We sure will be glad when it is all done and the workers are gone:yes:

[ahhuhz]

I see where all the water from Georgia has gone. Wow, that is nice!

[stephen]

I see where all the water from Georgia has gone. Wow, that is nice!

Thanks Chuck:cool3:

[hemle]

yet again.. IM JEALOUS!

[tyco4357]

Beautiful as always!!!

[CHICHI]

Breathtaking indeed :yes:

[stephen]

just snapped

[stephen]

looks good bubba wish I was there.

The landscaping herd said they have about 42 more working days and they should be about finished:yahoo:

[SouthernStarr]

just snapped

It just doesn't get any better than that. Perfection!

[CHICHI]

looks good bubba wish I was there.

:yes: Me Too :D:

[sundan]

If I were a koi, thats where I be swimming with my buds, that says it all folks. :yahoo: Outstanding Stephen, Mary!:yes: Is the smaller house a guesthouse or workshop? Have you put cams up yet to watch for the dreaded herons, gators? So when is the grand ribbon cutting event party happening?

[sumimono]

The design is amazingly executed.

[stephen]

If I were a koi, thats where I be swimming with my buds, that says it all folks. :yahoo: Outstanding Stephen, Mary!:yes: Is the smaller house a guesthouse or workshop? Have you put cams up yet to watch for the dreaded herons, gators? So when is the grand ribbon cutting event party happening?

It is a barn/stable for future animal residents:punk1:

[stephen]

The design is amazingly executed.

Thanks.

[Hirogoi]

I think if I ever saw your place in person Stephen, I'd end up "falling" in the water and living under the bridge. Like the little pond troll or something.

[stephen]

A few snapped yesterday of the varsity mud herd:cool3:

[slmtrm]

Gosh Stephen I can't believe how Unhealthy those poor fish look in that low health scoring pond:rolleyes::rolleyes:

[tommyd]

Absolutely incredible Stephan!:clap:

Haven't been on this site since last year. It turned out better than expected. Who would have thought that a gator & snake haven could have been transformed into this oasis! Who did the design and suggested what componentry was included?

Congrats on your accomplishment!

tommyd

[stephen]

Absolutely incredible Stephan!:clap:

Haven't been on this site since last year. It turned out better than expected. Who would have thought that a gator & snake haven could have been transformed into this oasis! Who did the design and suggested what componentry was included?

Congrats on your accomplishment!

tommyd

That would be me:humble::humble:

[John]

Now Stephen, it is not fair using that color enhancing photo software :rolleyes:

JK man look at those colors :ooolala:

[Jeannie]

amazing color. that mud pond is incredible Stephen. Just incredible. Jeannie

[stephen]

just snapped:cheer:

[rosekoi]

Wow.. You do not feed lightly do you ?

looking good:yes:

[CHICHI]

Great Shots Stephen :yes: Love that Tancho :cheer:

[Joey S]

Be still my heart...Rose - that's a feeding ring for everyone in the pond. Great way to check them all out at feeding time.

[SouthernStarr]

They are lookin' good:yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:

[Gordon Parr]

Cool!!!

[goldie789]

they are truly awesome as usual...thanks so much for sharing

[birdman]

So what's they eating? The red is awesome.

[shipisland]

I always enjoy your fish and pictures.Was wondering which food you use also.

[slmtrm]

Stephen all i can say is :bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::D:

[JoesPonds.com]

I can't believe this is the first time I've stumbled across this thread. If I ever make it out to Florida, I'd love to see Koiphenville in person. Absolutely amazing. All I can say is "Wow.":bow::bow::bow:

[DebbieKSW]

Brilliant Stephen...just brilliant.

[stephen]

So what's they eating? The red is awesome.

Thanks Steve. That pond is fed mostly BlackwaterCreek Max. The Varsity concrete pond herd is fed a mixture of the BWC Max, Hikari Gold, Hikari wheatgerm & BWC Gold.

But it's not all the food, it's the mud. I realize that there has recently been some statements made by some self-proclaimed experts that lightly stocked mudponds are a poor and unhealthy environment for koi when compared to a filtered, densely stocked concrete or liner pond.:confused: Obviously this was an opinion formed by heresay and not by actually having a mudpond. As you know, I have both and disagree with that thinking based on experience and my own personal results. But I won't harp about it, I will just post pictures as they are worth a few words;);)

[birdman]

Thanks Steve. That pond is fed mostly BlackwaterCreek Max. The Varsity concrete pond herd is fed a mixture of the BWC Max, Hikari Gold, Hikari wheatgerm & BWC Gold.

But it's not all the food, it's the mud. I realize that there has recently been some statements made by some self-proclaimed experts that lightly stocked mudponds are a poor and unhealthy environment for koi when compared to a filtered, densely stocked concrete or liner pond.:confused: Obviously this was an opinion formed by heresay and not by actually having a mudpond. As you know, I have both and disagree with that thinking based on experience and my own personal results. But I won't harp about it, I will just post pictures as they are worth a few words;);)

Thanks Steve. Why do the Japanese breeders raise out their fish in mud? and not concrete?

[clearwater]

Awesome Stephen.....amazing colors....amazing everything in view.....Vibrant ...:punk1::yes::punk1:

[birdman]

OK, you have a beautiful concrete pond right out side your door, crystal clear filtered water.
And a beautiful mud pond, dirty water. Probably the only time you see your fish is feeding.
Which do you enjoy the most? If you could only have a concrete/filtered pond or a natural mud pond which would it be?
I'm not talking about the landscaping or settings, but the ponds, what they do for the fish, and which as a hobbyist you enjoy the most.

[lukef]

I got both
six foot vis and awesome water quality

[stephen]

OK, you have a beautiful concrete pond right out side your door, crystal clear filtered water.
And a beautiful mud pond, dirty water. Probably the only time you see your fish is feeding.
Which do you enjoy the most? If you could only have a concrete/filtered pond or a natural mud pond which would it be?
I'm not talking about the landscaping or settings, but the ponds, what they do for the fish, and which as a hobbyist you enjoy the most.

Wow:eek1: What a question.:D: The two ponds really compliment each other so much but if I could only have one I would choose the crystal clear pond. It creates a feeling of cognative dissonance because I know that the fish are happier and healthier in the mudpond but I put my viewing pleasure ahead of that anyway. I am very fortunate to have the best of both worlds. Even tho I don't take my fish to shows, I still compete with myself to take them to their full potential. Funny thing is my passion has taken me to attempt breeding. That is the most exciting aspect of the hobby for me now. I don't ever plan to sell fish for a profit but I **** skippy will be obsessed with producing the best product that I am capable of. That will be my reward and the competition is within myself.

Bottom drains in pond pictured are 11 feet down.

[birdman]

I would agree Steve. Even though the mud pond is better for the fish, the clear pond is better for me, and I'm what it's about as far as me keeping Koi.

[Lam Nguyen]

I wish, I wish, with all my might, that I can have a pond just like Steven Height's...........in my next life...........or the life after next!:D:

To answer Birdman Steve's question, I would prefer both a mudpond and concrete pond, but if I had to choose one, I would choose a concrete pond but I would make it as big as my wallet will allow (which will be a 4' x 6' x 3' deep 1,000 gal pond:eek1::cool3::D:). And it will have the best filtration system I can afford. Yikes! Gotta go look for another job and start saving up!:D:

Steve H., your pond is looking awesome!!!!

[goldie789]

lam i think most of us agree with you when it comes to stephen ponds even his q/pond is top of the line..

[slmtrm]

Thanks Steve. That pond is fed mostly BlackwaterCreek Max. The Varsity concrete pond herd is fed a mixture of the BWC Max, Hikari Gold, Hikari wheatgerm & BWC Gold.

But it's not all the food, it's the mud. I realize that there has recently been some statements made by some self-proclaimed experts that lightly stocked mudponds are a poor and unhealthy environment for koi when compared to a filtered, densely stocked concrete or liner pond.:confused: Obviously this was an opinion formed by heresay and not by actually having a mudpond. As you know, I have both and disagree with that thinking based on experience and my own personal results. But I won't harp about it, I will just post pictures as they are worth a few words;);)
Stephen.....just remember opinions are like azzholes....Everyone has one but some stink alot worse than others. Just keep on plugging along and realize that the are plenty of people out there that appreciate and enjoy your ponds and fish. Relish in the love and ignore the hate:yes::yes::yes::yes:

[clm]

I honestly don't know which I would choose. A clear pond makes it easier to view the fish obviously, but even my first small pond which was not lined and had an all clay bottom and sides would clear quite often enough to see the fish very well. Definately easier to spot fish that may have any illness in a clear pond. Now I keep plants in my ponds and always have, so even with my water being beautifully clear. The fish don't always want to come out and play. They rest down near the lily pots and if they've been spooked by something they will hide amongst the pots. I find them much braver and more active during the heat of summer if I say turn the UV off and let the water green up. That didn't work so well last summer, my water stayed clear with the UV off. :rolleyes:
The few times in the past when I've had green water and when I had my little mud puddle, the fish colour breaking through the cloudy water made them look almost jewel like when they came up to feed or ruffle around in the plants. Not nearly as breathtaking as Stephens fish, but there was something really special about seeing them that way. I guess I could be quite happy with either.

Cindy

[stephen]

I honestly don't know which I would choose. A clear pond makes it easier to view the fish obviously, but even my first small pond which was not lined and had an all clay bottom and sides would clear quite often enough to see the fish very well. Definately easier to spot fish that may have any illness in a clear pond. Now I keep plants in my ponds and always have, so even with my water being beautifully clear. The fish don't always want to come out and play. They rest down near the lily pots and if they've been spooked by something they will hide amongst the pots. I find them much braver and more active during the heat of summer if I say turn the UV off and let the water green up. That didn't work so well last summer, my water stayed clear with the UV off. :rolleyes:
The few times in the past when I've had green water and when I had my little mud puddle, the fish colour breaking through the cloudy water made them look almost jewel like when they came up to feed or ruffle around in the plants. Not nearly as breathtaking as Stephens fish, but there was something really special about seeing them that way. I guess I could be quite happy with either.

Cindy

I am glad that I don't have to choose. The fish behave so differently in the mud. They come up so fast, grab a bite and are gone. The same fish in the clear pond would cruise the surface inhaling the pellets and seemed so more relaxed.

[stephen]

:)

[Cowiche Ponder]

sigh..can I vacation on the island for a week or so??

[clm]

Me too. I could putz around there around the ponds and gardens and totally lose track of time. It's really beautiful. Unfortunately we're going back to cold again for a few days and my yard is all brown, no green yet. Back to my world. :rolleyes:

Cindy

[stephen]

I wish, I wish, with all my might, that I can have a pond just like Steven Height's...........in my next life...........or the life after next!:D:

To answer Birdman Steve's question, I would prefer both a mudpond and concrete pond, but if I had to choose one, I would choose a concrete pond but I would make it as big as my wallet will allow (which will be a 4' x 6' x 3' deep 1,000 gal pond:eek1::cool3::D:). And it will have the best filtration system I can afford. Yikes! Gotta go look for another job and start saving up!:D:

Steve H., your pond is looking awesome!!!!

:yo:

[Hirogoi]

It's so pretty... It's not fair my dad and brother are heading down to Florida this spring break and I'm stuck doing taxes for hispanohablantes.

[HAMMERHEAD]

Stephen. The barn turned out fantastic..The place looks like it has always been there.Mary looks pleased :yes:

[stephen]

Stephen. The barn turned out fantastic..The place looks like it has always been there.Mary looks pleased :yes:

Thanks Bart.

[dant]

may i ask what do you do for a living.

[stephen]

may i ask what do you do for a living.

I have been retired for 15 years but Mary and I own this company. http://www.twhouse.com/

[stephen]

They are starving:D: Just snapped

[stephen]

:yo:

[vipldy]

Wow love the wood art, where did you guys get that? Also the reds on the koi is blood red:punk1::clap: They look great!!!

[stephen]

Wow love the wood art, where did you guys get that? Also the reds on the koi is blood red:punk1::clap: They look great!!!

Mary picked it up at a place called Plant Ranch. She went to get some water lillys and saw that thing.

The colors are unbelievable. Remember this is extremely hard water. IMHO they look extremely heathy too.;)

[vipldy]

Mary picked it up at a place called Plant Ranch. She went to get some water lillys and saw that thing.

The colors are unbelievable. Remember this is extremely hard water. IMHO they look extremely healthy too.;)

They look more than healthy:yes: The whites are killer to as is the sumi:eek1::yes: Proof is in the pics:yes:

[clm]

That wood art is amazing. I would have to keep that somewhere up really high or it would end up a dog chew toy.:rolleyes:
The colours on your fish are so clean and bright. Tell me, do you own an ugly fish. I won't believe it unless I see a pic.:D:

Cindy

[stephen]

They look more than healthy:yes: The whites are killer to as is the sumi:eek1::yes: Proof is in the pics:yes:

You have to see it to believe it. Pictures do not give them their just due.

[vipldy]

You have to see it to believe it. Pictures do not give them their just due.
I would love to see them:yes: I bet they are a sight to behold:bow: I have heard you haven't seen fish till you have seen S&M fish:yes:

[stephen]

That wood art is amazing. I would have to keep that somewhere up really high or it would end up a dog chew toy.:rolleyes:
The colours on your fish are so clean and bright. Tell me, do you own an ugly fish. I won't believe it unless I see a pic.:D:

Cindy

We own hundreds or maybe even thousands of them. No eyes, no fins, etc. We just move them to the Disney mud pond. It is really getting crowded in there too.:D:

Here are pics of a couple of the original fuglys, Feo & Fealito, before the tragic accident that expired them. With that being said, I would like to mention they both had great personalities, a good sense of humor and for fat girls they didn't excrete much ammonia:cool3:

[stephen]

I would love to see them:yes: I bet they are a sight to behold:bow: I have heard you haven't seen fish till you have seen S&M fish:yes:

You are invited:D:

[stephen]

Just added 16 more to the varsity mudpond today.:cool3:

[CHICHI]

Love Those Shiro :yes: :D:

[stephen]

Love Those Shiro :yes: :D:

Those are some of the ones from the shiro growout we had.

[Sarge]

Um, K - how do you propose that you are gonna be able to harvest them outta that monster pond? Some very nice prospects headed there.

[stephen]

Um, K - how do you propose that you are gonna be able to harvest them outta that monster pond? Some very nice prospects headed there.

I have a pumping station that will pump 600 gpm plus 2 others that I can quickly hook up that match them for a total of 1800 gpm/108,000 gph/. I can drain it in 10-12 hours. I slanted the pond bottom to the pump station so I can force all the koi into a tiny shallow body of water. Put on waders and snag with a sock net.

I am hoping to do just that in November:salute::salute:

[Bonheur]

It is so breathtaking to see so many fish with such vibrant and perfect colors! :cool: How hard is your water? What type of clay do you line your mudponds with, & where do you buy it? Do you feed special treats (like silkworm pupae, etc)? What is, in your personal opinion, the reason your koi have such awesome colors, even perfect shiro, in hard water?

Sorry for all the questions, but your koi look even better :eek1: on this new computer I bought! :yes:

[stephen]

It is so breathtaking to see so many fish with such vibrant and perfect colors! :cool: How hard is your water? What type of clay do you line your mudponds with, & where do you buy it? Do you feed special treats (like silkworm pupae, etc)? What is, in your personal opinion, the reason your koi have such awesome colors, even perfect shiro, in hard water?

Sorry for all the questions, but your koi look even better :eek1: on this new computer I bought! :yes:

The last time I checked the GH was about 480 ppm, alkalinity 120 ppm, pH 8.5-8.8. Some of the colors defy the books and their worms. My hardness in my concrete pond is about 40 ppm, alkalinity 25 ppm and pH about 7.2-7.4 but the reds don't look like they do in the mud's 480 ppm much harder water.

[Bonheur]

Thank you! :D: This is definitely a thread to come to when one wants to see pure beauty! :yes:

[stephen]

Thank you! :D: This is definitely a thread to come to when one wants to see pure beauty! :yes:

Thanks. Some come to this thread for all kinds of reasons:D:

[stephen]

:yes:

[Luck]

look at that sumi:punk1:

[Sarge]

I have a pumping station that will pump 600 gpm plus 2 others that I can quickly hook up that match them for a total of 1800 gpm/108,000 gph/. I can drain it in 10-12 hours. I slanted the pond bottom to the pump station so I can force all the koi into a tiny shallow body of water. Put on waders and snag with a sock net.

I am hoping to do just that in November:salute::salute:
:punk1::punk1::punk1::punk1:

[Sonny]

Can't wait for the pond pull.

[stephen]

:punk1::punk1::punk1::punk1:

D Skippy:cool3:

[Susan Reed]

I just love looking at your fish Stephen :clap:

[Marilyn]

Serious eye candy! The colors are incredible. :faint2:
I'm not gonna tell my fish what they're missing, lol.

[goldie789]

wow they are looking good stephen...is your cam up during the week??

[slmtrm]

Thanks. Some come to this thread for all kinds of reasons:D:
I come to drool and slobber.......... Is that a bag thing:eek1:

[Hirogoi]

The shiro utsuri in the last pic looks purple.

[stephen]

The shiro utsuri in the last pic looks purple.

More precisely it is magenta or heliotrope, You know, somewhere between magenta and violet. The mud is amazing young man.:yahoo:Stay tuned and learn:cool3:

[powerman]

impressive........very impressive.......:yahoo::yahoo:

[Hirogoi]

Wait is that the fish's actual color!!!???

[stephen]

Wait is that the fish's actual color!!!???

Mostly white with some black.

[Hirogoi]

But the purplish hue?

[stephen]

But the purplish hue?


What purplish hue:confused::confused::confused::confused::D:

[Hirogoi]

Never mind. I see purples.

[slmtrm]

Never mind. I see purples.
If I'm not mistaken these fish are young, so the sumi is not finished...if you can belive that from their beauty. What you see as purple is underlying sumi and the black black is on the surface sumi. Also the sunlight angle enhances the purplish hue......Either that or it's time for another eye exam( just kidding of course).

[APOLONASGR36]

Stephen I have never seen colors like this before. I know you are keeping records of water parameters and you are drawing conclusions from a multitude of things you are doing. Is there any info you can share on this or another thread that could help us mortals to keep fish healthier with better colors? I followed your build from the other threads that I cannot find now and I know you had many challenges to overcome with the source water in this mud pond and not only. You are getting incredible results in the fish's colors. Moreover, is not only color but also the skin looks so smooth and flawless it is simply amazing. You cannot even tell when the smooth skin of the head meets the skin of the body. Such a unified color!!!!!!!! I am amazed and speechless. Please pass some of your research conclusions when you feel you can.
Thanks
John

[Hirogoi]

Actually an eye exam is probably a good thing. I've been having some issues with light.

[stephen]

Stephen I have never seen colors like this before. I know you are keeping records of water parameters and you are drawing conclusions from a multitude of things you are doing. Is there any info you can share on this or another thread that could help us mortals to keep fish healthier with better colors? I followed your build from the other threads that I cannot find now and I know you had many challenges to overcome with the source water in this mud pond and not only. You are getting incredible results in the fish's colors. Moreover, is not only color but also the skin looks so smooth and flawless it is simple amazing. You cannot even tell when the smooth skin of the head meets the skin of the body. Such a unified color!!!!!!!! I am amazed and speechless. Please pass some of your research conclusions when you feel you can.
Thanks
John

Thanks John. I can't explain it:confused::confused: Very hard water yet all 3 colors are incredible:confused: Definitely nothing special about the water parameters. The pond is very lightly stocked and it has massive aeration for a mud pond but other than that all I can say it is the mud and of course they are pretty nice fish to begin with.:confused:

Disclaimer: Some say mud ponds are an unhealthy environment for koi:surprise::gape::Drogar-Shock(LBG)::gack::D:

[Hirogoi]

I think he's saying it boils down to magic.

[APOLONASGR36]

Could it be the quality or the type of the clay you put in the bottom. I know you were specifically looking in to what type of clay you were going to put. Of course, I agree with you that if the genetics were not there then you would not get the same results. Everybody that has a mud pond gets a dramatic improvement in his or her Koi's color. Nevertheless, yours is out of this world. Enjoy them in good health.

John

[stephen]

Could it be the quality or the type of the clay you put in the bottom. I know you were specifically looking in to what type of clay you were going to put. Of course, I agree with you that if the genetics were not there then you would not get the same results. Everybody that has a mud pond gets a dramatic improvement in his or her Koi's color. Nevertheless, yours is out of this world. Enjoy them in good health.

John


I don't know John.:confused: It is Wyoming sodium bentonite and really pure. Between the 2 mudponds we put in well over 60,000 pounds of it. Some say that hard water produces bad beni, and I believe that in a concrete or liner pond, but the quality of the beni was the biggest shock to me. The water is hard as a rock. Something about the mud:confused:

[Sonny]

Really stunning! :cool:

On a side note, do you think fish bump into each other in a mud pond?

[stephen]

Really stunning! :cool:

On a side note, do you think fish bump into each other in a mud pond?

When they are spawning:yes::D:

[stephen]

:yes:

[fishbone]

Breathtaking for sure!

[RichToyBox]

The boat doesn't appear to be fast enough to get your blood boiling. Getting old????:D:

[stephen]

The boat doesn't appear to be fast enough to get your blood boiling. Getting old????:D:

I am an antique:yes:

[wander]

Stephen...the group of photos from 3 days ago, the photo of the dirt with big rocks all around the parimeter, is that the start of another project?

[stephen]

Stephen...the group of photos from 3 days ago, the photo of the dirt with big rocks all around the parimeter, is that the start of another project?

No it will be a turn-a -round or a parking space. We will soon be starting the driveway. It is a huge project. Getting close:cheer: I will go take a few pics:cool3:

[tnovak]

Nive little boat......what kind is it??? I want to get a little row boat for my pond, haven't seen any that I like....But I like that!
Pictures of paradise!

[stephen]

Nive little boat......what kind is it??? I want to get a little row boat for my pond, haven't seen any that I like....But I like that!
Pictures of paradise!

It is a glass bottom boat but I don't remember the brand.

[darion6]

It is a glass bottom boat but I don't remember the brand.

That boat is marvelous!

you know how to live, stephen:punk1:

[ahhuhz]

Awful small, a cabin cruiser would be in order! :clap::cheer::yahoo::yahoo::clap::clap:

[stephen]

I wanted this one but Mary wouldn't let me have it:(:frown::mad::mad:

[Hirogoi]

You'd need a bigger pond first.

[ahhuhz]

That would have been perfect! :cool::cool::cheer::cheer::clap::clap:

[goldie789]

I wanted this one but Mary wouldn't let me have it:(:frown::mad::mad:

Stephen maybe if you pouted , stomp your feet and cry a little she may consider it....

[stephen]

Stephen maybe if you pouted , stomp your feet and cry a little she may consider it....


:no: I tried that. I told her I was going to hold my breath until she said yes. After about 10-12 seconds I must have passed out. I woke up and she was watching tv:confused::confused:

[goldie789]

:no: I tried that. I told her I was going to hold my breath until she said yes. After about 10-12 seconds I must have passed out. I woke up and she was watching tv:confused::confused:

sounds like a good mom...

[stephen]

just snapped

[SouthernStarr]

That cabin and waterfall are to die for - just beautiful:yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:

[stephen]

That cabin and waterfall are to die for - just beautiful:yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:

Thanks Cobie:humble::humble:

[Midorigoi]

Wow! Just beautiful :bow:

How much food do all those koi eat daily?? :eek1:

[stephen]

Wow! Just beautiful :bow:

How much food do all those koi eat daily?? :eek1:

We are currently feeding 15-20 pounds per day for all ponds.

[slmtrm]

We are currently feeding 15-20 pounds per day for all ponds.
:eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::e ek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1::eek 1:

[wander]

So are you staying at the cabin now for a period or just popping over to feed the fish and sit by the pond? Seems such a waste for a perfectly good cabin to sit empty....I'd be happy to come down and cabin-sit for you :rolleyes::yes:

[stephen]

So are you staying at the cabin now for a period or just popping over to feed the fish and sit by the pond? Seems such a waste for a perfectly good cabin to sit empty....I'd be happy to come down and cabin-sit for you :rolleyes::yes:

:D:The appliances have not been installed yet. Soon I hope. I imagine we will spend most of our time over there.

[Jeannie]

Your "cabin" by the pond would be my idea of a perfect place to live out the rest of my life. What a gorgeous place Stephen. I never get tired of looking at your pictures! Thanks so much for posting them and giving some of some great day dreams!! Jeannie

[Jeannie]

I have never seen such a place...... it is truly incredible Stephen & Mary..... I'm going over the entire thread and I am totally speechless, it takes my breath away. You could sell tours, get rich and make another one!! LOL Jeannie

[stephen]

I have never seen such a place...... it is truly incredible Stephen & Mary..... I'm going over the entire thread and I am totally speechless, it takes my breath away. You could sell tours, get rich and make another one!! LOL Jeannie

Thank You very much Jeannie. I hope you can see it one day.

[stephen]

Mud pond (not "mudless" mud pond:rolleyes:) flow thru tank System now on line.:punk1:

[fairlady]

I love that carving....Where did you hang it, inside, outside, over fireplace???????

[APOLONASGR36]

How exactly you use the tanks Stephen? Are they QT?

[stephen]

I love that carving....Where did you hang it, inside, outside, over fireplace???????

On the barn's exterior:cool3:

[stephen]

How exactly you use the tanks Stephen? Are they QT?

I just got them running a couple hours ago. Not used yet but this will be an area to grow and cull fry.

[Hirogoi]

How many carvings do you have?

[stephen]

How many carvings do you have?

2. That is the tiny one. The 12 ft one should arrive shortly. It will be set into a concrete base and be at the entrance. Will take pics tomorrow of the area.

[stephen]

Here is where it will be placed when it arrives.

[stephen]

Tomorrow they start doing the rest of the driveway, prolly about 300 feet or so.:eek1:

Just snapped

[stephen]

just snapped:punk1:

[stephen]

Here is where it will be placed when it arrives.

:cool3:

[Susan Reed]

Boy they look awesome Stephen :cool: I think I would sell the place across the street and move in there permanently ;)

[koitoo]

why the wooden stick? Is it a trigger to release the food in the feeder? It is beautiful as always and the sun sculpture is awesome - Medusa like.

[SouthernStarr]

That carving is awesome and you found the perfect spot:clap::clap::clap:

Fish are looking GREAT - looks like your mud pond is pretty healthy to me:yahoo::yahoo:

[stephen]

why the wooden stick? Is it a trigger to release the food in the feeder? It is beautiful as always and the sun sculpture is awesome - Medusa like.


Exactly, The koi push on the lever and food is released:punk1:

[stephen]

That carving is awesome and you found the perfect spot:clap::clap::clap:

Fish are looking GREAT - looks like your mud pond is pretty healthy to me:yahoo::yahoo:

Thanks Cobie:cheer: I know a few say that mud ponds are an extremely unhealthy environment for koi:rolleyes:. But in the whole time that I have had fish in both mud ponds, there has not even been one sick one. :no:

[stephen]

Boy they look awesome Stephen :cool: I think I would sell the place across the street and move in there permanently ;)

We may just have to do that:punk1:

[Hirogoi]

If I ever visit can I swim with them?

[stephen]

If I ever visit can I swim with them?

I would have to put you in the q tank for a couple of years 1st:cool3:

[koikate]

LOL. Snappy comeback! :clap::clap::clap:

[Gene]

It becomes more beautiful all the time. :yes:

[gander]

We may just have to do that:punk1:

How about hiring me to just live there and post on Koiphen ever so often. You would have to put up a new fence so Kala and Clancy could not get on the road and you would have to take all the cats too.:eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1:

[stephen]

How about hiring me to just live there and post on Koiphen ever so often. You would have to put up a new fence so Kala and Clancy could not get on the road and you would have to take all the cats too.:eek1::eek1::eek1::eek1:

Yea:yes: You could move there and then we could call it an Indian Reservation. Then we could build a casino and you could manage it:punk1::punk1::yahoo::cool:

[gander]

Yea:yes: You could move there and then we could call it an Indian Reservation. Then we could build a casino and you could manage it:punk1::punk1::yahoo::cool:

That would be just great but the only problem with that you would have to deed the land back to the indians before they could operate a casino or smoke shop on it.:D::D::D::D:

[fairlady]

The big sculpture is awesome....Is it treated so the salt air won't ruin it? I would hate to think that the wood would dry and split on such a lovely piece.

[gander]

What is Mary working on in this picture? I know its a plant but what kind and where is she putting it?

[tnovak]

Looks like she has power tools at hand!!!!!!

[BAVOTOI]

We may just have to do that:punk1:


Stephen every nice job how your BACK ????

[stephen]

The big sculpture is awesome....Is it treated so the salt air won't ruin it? I would hate to think that the wood would dry and split on such a lovely piece.

I don't know:confused:

[stephen]

What is Mary working on in this picture? I know its a plant but what kind and where is she putting it? I don't know. She put it in the water by where she is working. They spawned on it the next day:D:

[stephen]

Stephen every nice job how your BACK ????

My back is fine:cool::yahoo:

[stephen]

:yes:

[David Smothers]

Looking better every day. What a transformaton! I remember when you were "toying" with the idea of going to the land auction. Great job!

[stephen]

Looking better every day. What a transformaton! I remember when you were "toying" with the idea of going to the land auction. Great job!

Thanks David. It is finally near completion:punk1::cheer::yahoo:

[wander]

Thanks David. It is finally near completion:punk1::cheer::yahoo:


So.......what's your next big project?

[stephen]

So.......what's your next big project?

I think we are done for a while:D:

[gander]

I think we are done for a while:D:

Yah think?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[stephen]

Yah think?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Not very often:no: I usually let Mary:bow::bow: do that.

[gray cat]

AWESOME!:yes:

[stephen]

AWESOME!:yes:

just snapped:humble:

[stephen]

It becomes more beautiful all the time. :yes:

Thank Ya Sir:yes::cheer::yahoo:

[stephen]

just snapped:cool3:

[Limpet]

They really look good Stephen, (**** good).

[stephen]

They really look good Stephen, (**** good).


Thanks Rick. I think so too:punk1:

[koi5555]

Very nice Stephen. The herd looks great.
Fantastic pics. You and Anthony are getting really good with those camera's.
Keep them coming. We love to see them.

Bill

[stephen]

Very nice Stephen. The herd looks great.
Fantastic pics. You and Anthony are getting really good with those camera's.
Keep them coming. We love to see them.

Bill

Thanks Bill.:cool3:

[David Smothers]

Sumi is very impressive!

[gander]

Are you going to drain the pond this year or are you going to let the babies that hatch from the spawn grow out?

[stephen]

Are you going to drain the pond this year or are you going to let the babies that hatch from the spawn grow out?


I don't think the eggs in the varsity pond got fertilized. At any rate, we would not drain until November.

[stephen]

Just snapped. IMHO they look pretty healthy :yahoo::punk1::cheer::yes::clap::cool::wee_hee: :yo:

[koikate]

Just awesome!

[Midorigoi]

Wow, what a feeding swarm; beautiful! :clap:

[stephen]

Thanks:cool3: