Creating a “Minnesota Nice” Wildlife-Friendly Pond Environment
What are some ways to attract local Minnesota wildlife to my pond?
Creating a wildlife-friendly pond environment is a wonderful way to support the local biodiversity we have here in Minnesota and enjoy the benefits of nature right in your own backyard! Below are a few steps to create a pond that is more welcoming to that local wildlife.
Sun vs Shade?
First, choose a suitable location for your pond. While both sunlight and shade are important for your pond, avoid placing your pond directly under trees that can fill your pond with leaves and cause PH imbalances.
Escape Routes?
Planning on a variety of wildlife means having a range of depths in your pond. Having a drop-off ledge all the way around your pond could spell disaster for a small animal such as a squirrel or rabbit that accidentally stumbles into the water. Having a gradual slope even on just one side ensures that any critter that goes in can come out again without a struggle. Escape routes are key. Don’t worry, you don’t need a large pond to accomplish this; even a small pond can have a sloping side that is wildlife-friendly! (and kid-friendly too!)
Chemicals?
While we believe all ponds and water features should built to be nature-friendly, it’s especially important with a pond you’re building specifically for local wildlife. Use the right liners, sealers, and pond materials that are appropriately rated. Only use approved water treatment products to keep your water and any fish in good health. Additionally, you might need to be careful with the herbicides and pesticides that could leech into your pond water. If there’s one thing Minnesotans love, it’s a manicured green lawn. Don’t worry, you don’t have to give it completely up! There are just a few more steps and a couple other options to choose from to make sure your pond water is safe for passing animals.
At the end of the day, you’ve done your part and now it’s time to let nature take its course. Resist over-managing your pond and let it evolve. You might have a few more flowering plants pop up around the pond, a few more insects, and more algae growing in your pond than usual, but that can be a small price to pay in order to see your pond come alive with nature!
Need some help with naturally cleaning and maintaining your water feature?
