Polliwogs!!!

The Eckert/Lyon pond was fully drained, repaired and re-filled in the middle of June, just over one month ago. And just in the nick of time!!

Above-an example of the variable pond edge, which allows for increased retention, attractive pond edge during periods of reduced water levels, and habitat for all kinds of critters, including polliwogs and frogs!

This property once was wooded and wet, able to absorb and store a tremendous amount of water and sustain all kinds of life throughout the year.

In the last few years, due to construction, logging, clearing the understory, compaction and bulldozing of forest duff, the land had all but lost it's ability to hold water resulting in poor water absorption, excessive runoff and puddling.

Elliott Menache of Greenbelt Consulting, after being contacted about the property's water problems, referred the clients to dbBrad and Fran Abel Landscape Consulting. We were hired to create a solution for the flooding. We focused on hydrology, environmental concerns, habitat and aesthetics.

Above--the collector pond receives runoff from the land and roof water from the residence.
Below--the large retention pond already full of life after only one month.

There were lots of frogs on the site, remnants of previously forested land and, although there was too much water in the rainy season, it was parched in the summer sun. Life was leaving the area.

Above--picture of a tadpole compliments of Wikipedia

But during a site visit yesterday with Fran Abel, we discovered that there are already polliwogs in the pond! In solving the flooding problem, we've also restored habitat.

Above, what used to be a drainage ditch is now a stream, collecting surface runoff and filtering/cleaning/aerating the circulating water.

Not only frogs, but birds of all sorts, little beetles and dragonflies, underwater centipede-like insects and numerous other assorted creatures and in and around the water. Where did they all come from and how did it happen so fast? A nice example of "build it and they will come."

The reward for restoring the land, controlling the water and being so environmentally concerned are the new little polliwogs swimming at the edges of the newly finished ponds and the stream. A few with legs already and after less than one month. Note: the running water, fish, birds and frogs are keeping the area free of mosquitoes

Above--Wetland is flooded after pumping the pond for repairs. Roughly 15,000 gallons are shown here, with room for more.

So if you have a flooding problem, or a lack of habitat, or a concern for the organisms that feed the animals that make up the delicate balance of our food cycle and the health of the planet, don't hesitate another minute to call for a consultation: 360 920 8280