one thing i would like to do to my pond is make a vegetable filter >>>How to construct a vegetable pond filter @ http://www.pond-solutions.co.uk/pjmvegfilter.htm or just search Google for them or you could consider is a In Pond Filter Box and Aerator really cheap way to go http://www.skippysstuff.com/fltrbox.htm or then you could make just a bio filter diy instructions at http://www.runnerduck.com/pf1.htm..... plus some other things to consider is the placement of your pond If you want to grow aquatic plants, you should try to place the pond in a site that will get around 5 to 6 hours sunlight per day and you should also avoid placing your pond under trees where it may get clogged up with fallen leaves. Also check out http://www.reeflounge.com/showthread.php?t=24851 <<<