How to Build a Lake on Your Private Property
There are probably many reasons you are interested in building a private lake on your property. You might have a huge piece of land, to begin with, and you love the peace, and quiet fishing on a lake brings. Buying a property with a natural lake can cost a lot, and so you are thinking of the possibility of building it artificially. Having a private lake for you to enjoy with your family on your personal property is a brilliant idea. Not only will it add beauty to your surroundings, but it will also increase the value of your property eventually, should you want to resell it. In case you are asking how to build a lake on your private property, this article got you covered.
Table of Contents
Do your research
Before starting your artificial lake building journey, make sure to do much research and professional consultation first. How much budget are you willing to shed? What equipment do you need to use? What are the things you can DIY, and what are the things that a professional needs to handle? Building a private lake is not just digging a hole and putting water into it. It requires scientific knowledge too.
Know the details of your land property
You also need to know if your land is suitable for a lake. Some soil cannot stand the construction of artificial bodies of water. You should make sure that building a lake is feasible for the land you own because if you proceed with the construction and your property is not suitable for a lake; this can cause unforeseen problems in the future. It would be best if you researched the rules and regulations of building a lake on your private property as well. Even though you own it, some laws can affect your ownership. Making artificial lakes can affect the environment. That is why it is important to research your state’s law.
Estimate and adjust the cost
You sure prepared an approximate budget but are you ready to make other adjustments? Building a lake can cost you a considerable amount of money. Before you proceed with the project, you should be prepared to adjust your estimated cost. A man-made lake can cost 3,000 USD to 5,000 USD per acre; using this, you can estimate the size of the lake that you want. Aside from the size and the materials, you should also allot a budget for the team you commissioned to do it.
Consult a professional
team of artificial lake builders. After you have already reviewed the details of your land, your desired size of the lake, and your budget, you should also make sure to consult a team of professionals before proceeding with the construction of your man-made lake. Who are the people that matter in this type of project? First, a geologist will know upfront if it is feasible to build a lake on your property. They can also tell you if this lake’s construction will have an unpleasant effect on the environment. If this is the case, you might think twice before proceeding because of the sanctions you might be facing with the authorities in the future. But if everything looks right for you, then you can proceed to the next steps.
Decide on the design and function of your lake
The method of your lake will be based on its function. Would you want something that is meant for fishing? How about other activities such as swimming and paddling? Or do you want something to add aesthetic appeal to your property? Remember that professional lake builders can make assessments depending on the function that you want for your artificial lake. They will build the whole plan according to it.
Take into consideration other scientific input
Did you know that the Ph level or natural lake is 6 to 8, depending on the type of soil and bedrock? You have to maintain the water’s health in your lake and make sure it is not polluted. A lake that is not muddy or full of weeds is excellent in absorbing oxygen needed for fishes to thrive. Remember that your lake water must be sustainable and regularly checked. While this may appear complicated, you will get used to the process as you go along.
Find the right team.
If you want a fully functional artificial lake, you have to hire a team to make it work. This is something you cannot just DIY. From the design, construction, breaking grounds, and landscaping, professional lake builders, can handle anything for you. A permaculture designer, aside from lake-building experts, can also help, especially if you want your artificial lake sustainable. Your team of experts will also help you secure the proper documentation and permits needed to push thru with the project.
Why Build Your Artificial Lake?
Building your private lake is not easy. It requires a lot of research and preparation and, of course, a lot of money. This is not a project that you can do because you feel like it. If you are keen on building your private property lake, you have to make sure your land meets all the criteria necessary to sustain it once it is built. This can save you a lot of time, money, and future troubles. But why build your man-made lake? There are several good reasons for it. Not only can it help you increase the value of your property, but it can also be an avenue for bonding. Imagine fishing with your family and friends, paddling in quiet surroundings, and just simply enjoying a good view of nature. How cool is that? Remember also that artificial lakes can attract wildlife. Or you can introduce wildlife like ducks into it. Once built, it can have a lot of functions that can also serve as your investment.
