The idea was dreamt up by fifth grade teacher Ron Sluyter and his class.  They had envisioned a pond at their school that would enhance the outdoor learning environment and inspire a wide range of activities from biology related projects, to writing, art and much more.

    Randy Fery and Eddie Hartrampf of Pacific Water Gardens and Brett Kacalek of Earthworks Ponds & Watergardens offered their assistance and technical knowledge to make this project become a reality.  This program is known as Ponds for Kids.  A school can raise money to cover the costs of the pond kit which includes a pump, liner, biological filter, skimmer, rock and stone etc., then experienced pond designer will come out to the school site and donate their time and knowledge free of charge in order to promote ponds and water gardening by offering the students a hands on learning experience.

    There is no better way than to have the students involved in every step from the first ground breaking shovel to filling the pond with water.  The Ponds for Kids program is based on the Aquascape Designs Inc. pond system.  A system of products designed to mimic nature.  These are natural and low maintenance ponds and a standard 11 x 16 pond is designed to be completed in one day!  Students see immediate rewards for their effort and continue to enjoy the beauty and surprises of nature as the landscape matures over time.  The pond becomes its own living ecosystem for students and teachers to observe and study.

    Due to the hard work of the fifth grade class, willingness and support of staff and principal Marilyn Wood, Howard Eccles Elementary School now has their won natural water garden that students will benefit from through the years to come.  For more information on the Ponds for Kids program, please contact Earthworks Ponds & Water Gardens at 503-651-7663.

OLCB # 6834