Creating a stream with a waterfall that meanders along a slope tumbling over rocks, and trickles through nooks and crannies ending up in a pool can be an expensive landscape project choice, but indeed, is quite worth the effort when done right. Its ambience plays a prelude to and extends into all the other gardening set around it creating an Eden-like environment. Working with the principal that water always flows downhill, it is important to build a water garden that is scaled appropriately to your property.

Any site with a slope of one inch per ten feet will support a stream, but more slope expands the possibilities for building waterfalls. Slopes can be built higher to accommodate larger waterfalls. Keep in mind your scale. A waterfall should not be too high or it will look out of place. Make sure there is enough drainage. A heavy rain can add more water to your stream than your facilities can handle. The stream can be a source of runoff as well. Locating the stream so that overflow water runs into a drainage easement or a dry well (a pit lined with gravel ) just beyond the low end of the stream can solve the problem of having to add water to your stream in dry, hot weather.

This landscaping project requires some specific planning beforehand. Identify underground utilities and easements. You do not want to build your stream on easements, but clearly on your property. Know ahead of time where and if your utilities are buried. It is always good not to disrupt the underground flow of things and you’ll want to know where it is best to tap into existing wiring for a pump or if you decide you want nighttime lighting. Plan ahead to enjoy your stream after dark. In most areas, building codes for swimming pools apply to water features. Check with your county for specific building permits. Plan truck access. A large, heavy dump truck will need a place to deliver several tons of gravel and stone.

Building a stream is a major project, so consider hiring a pro, at least for parts of the project that may be beyond your abilities. The basic steps of building a stream are digging the stream run and end pond, usually done by hand; leveling the banks of the stream with each other; placing the lining with a spun-polyester under layer, topped by a 45-millimeter rubber lining, that have a 20-year life span; setting the largest rocks in place to sculpt the stream and stabilize its edges; and adding small rocks and gravel to cover the entire surface of the streambed. These rocks and gravel host beneficial bacteria and algae that help keep the water clean, in addition to hiding the rubber liner.

Flexible PVC return pipe, which carries the water from the bottom back up to the top, is buried about 8 inches deep along the outside of the stream. The final step in this process is arranging rocks to form falls and ripples. This is the part homeowners enjoy the most because it conveys the unique presence of the stream and let’s you hear the stream even if out of view.