Ecosystem Koi Pond

Create a Living Backyard Retreat

Imagine stepping into your backyard and hearing the gentle sound of moving water. Colorful koi glide beneath blooming water lilies. Dragonflies dance across the surface. Birds stop for a drink. At dusk, frogs begin their evening chorus.

A professionally designed ecosystem pond transforms an ordinary landscape into a living destination that becomes more beautiful with every passing season.

Custom Ecosystem Ponds

At Domina’s Agway, we design and build custom ecosystem ponds throughout Rhode Island, Southeastern Massachusetts, and Eastern Connecticut using the proven Aquascape ecosystem methodology—the industry standard for natural, low-maintenance water features.

Serving Homeowners Throughout

Why Choose Domina's Agway?

Unlike many contractors, we remain your long-term pond resource after installation.

Our Portsmouth location supplies premium koi, aquatic plants, fish food, water treatments, pumps, filtration components, and seasonal pond supplies. When questions arise, you’ll have a knowledgeable local team ready to help.

One Company. Complete Support.

  • Professional pond design
  • Expert installation
  • Premium Aquascape components
  • Aquatic plants and fish
  • Seasonal maintenance support
  • Ongoing education and guidance

What Is an Ecosystem Pond?

An ecosystem pond is a balanced, living water garden that combines fish, aquatic plants, biological filtration, waterfalls, and natural stone to create crystal-clear water without relying on constant chemical treatments.

Unlike traditional ornamental ponds, an ecosystem pond functions much like a natural lake. Each component works together to support a healthy environment that improves over time.

The result is a stunning backyard feature that attracts wildlife, creates a peaceful gathering space, and provides year-round enjoyment.

The Five Elements of a Healthy Ecosystem Pond

  1. Fish: Koi and goldfish bring movement, color, and personality to the pond. Many owners hand-feed their fish and develop a connection with them over time.
  2. Aquatic Plants: Water lilies, marginal plants, and submerged oxygenators provide beauty while naturally helping control algae and improve water quality.
  3. Beneficial Bacteria: Millions of beneficial bacteria colonize the rock and gravel surfaces, breaking down excess nutrients and maintaining biological balance.
  4. Filtration & Aeration: Professional filtration systems continuously circulate and oxygenate the water, supporting both fish health and water clarity.
  5. Natural Rock & Gravel: Natural stone creates a realistic appearance while providing critical surface area for beneficial bacteria to thrive. When these five elements work together, the pond becomes a healthy ecosystem that requires surprisingly little maintenance.

Ecosystem Pond vs. Pondless Waterfall

Feature Ecosystem Pond Pondless Waterfall
Koi & Fish Yes No
Aquatic Plants Extensive Limited
Wildlife Attraction Excellent Moderate
Natural Ecosystem Yes No
Waterfall Sound Yes Yes
Four-Season Interest Excellent Good
Maintenance Low Very Low
Starting Investment Higher Lower
If you’re looking for the most immersive backyard water feature experience, an ecosystem pond offers unmatched beauty, wildlife activity, and personal enjoyment.

FAQs About Ecosystem Ponds

Most homeowners spend only a small amount of time each week feeding fish, trimming plants, and enjoying their pond.
Yes. Proper biological filtration, circulation, plants, and beneficial bacteria work together to maintain healthy water conditions.

Yes. Our ponds are designed with appropriate depth and circulation to support koi through New England winters.

No. Moving water and fish help prevent mosquito breeding.

Most projects are completed within 3–5 days, depending on size and site conditions.
Yes. We provide pond openings, cleanouts, seasonal maintenance, troubleshooting, and ongoing support.

Ecosystem Pond Investment

Every pond is custom built. Final pricing depends on size, site access, excavation requirements, filtration needs, waterfalls, and surrounding hardscape integration.

Small Ecosystem Pond

Approximately 8′ × 11′ | 800 Gallons

Starting at $15,000

Perfect for patios and small yards

Medium Ecosystem Pond

Approximately 11′ × 16′ | 1,500 Gallons

Starting at $25,000

Our most popular size

Large Ecosystem Pond

Approximately 16′ × 21′ | 2,500+ Gallons

Starting at $45,000

For those who want a showpiece

Pricing includes everything listed above. Add-ons like LED lighting, additional fish, and premium plants available.

Every Installation Includes

  • On-site consultation credit
  • Custom Aquascape ecosystem design
  • Professional excavation and installation
  • EPDM liner and underlayment
  • BioFalls biological filter
  • Pond skimmer system
  • Pump, plumbing, and aeration
  • Natural rock and gravel
  • Aquatic plants
  • Starter beneficial bacteria treatment
  • Owner training
  • Seasonal care guide
  • One-year installation warranty
  • Manufacturer warranties on components

Optional upgrades such as landscape lighting, larger waterfalls, patios, and hardscape integration are quoted separately.

Why Rhode Island Homeowners Choose Ecosystem Ponds

Our Design & Installation Process

1. On-Site Consultation

We visit your property to discuss your goals, evaluate the site, and develop recommendations.
Consultation Fee: $500, fully credited toward your project.

2. Custom Design

We create a pond design tailored to your property, budget, and vision.

3. Professional Installation

Most ecosystem ponds are completed within 3–5 days.

4. Fish & Plant Introduction

The ecosystem is established with carefully selected plants and fish.

5. Owner Walkthrough

We'll show you how everything works and provide seasonal care recommendations.

6. Ongoing Support

Our relationship continues long after construction is complete.

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Jonathan Nooney
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✔️👍
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David Marshall
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Nice people, always take care of me.
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Kate McCarthy profile picture
Kate McCarthy
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Great spot! Been going there for years! Helpful friendly and well stocked w needed supplies!
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Emily Chappell
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Pet photos with Santa are my favorite annual holiday tradition, and Domina’s Agway is always our go-to. We love coming here every year for this event. The store is beautifully decorated with stunning trees, wreaths, and holiday décor, and it’s always fun browsing everything else along the way (including turtles and fish!). Thank you for another wonderful event and for the treats for all. We’ll definitely be back soon to pick up more dog toys!
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Jerilyn wingin it
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Wonderful family owned business!!
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Laci Jones profile picture
Laci Jones
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Domina’s Agway has kept my ponds looking great year-round. It’s nice to know when I am not there that they are being cared for so well. And when I am there, I can enjoy them rather than having to work too. And Monika is always quick to follow up with me when I do not respond to make sure all is set. Customer Service is first class.
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Stephanie Van Voast
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Great little place I went to the first time but always saw driving by, selection is quite impressive, reasonable prices and fall selection is pretty large. Would definitely recommend for all your backyard and feed needs, thanks again and will definitely return
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K S
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Excellent family run business. Great products and customer service! Nick was very knowledgeable and helpful with my koi fish pond.
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Sheila Dobbyn
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We are beginner gardeners and the staff was extremely helpful, attentive, and encouraging of our new hobby. Bring the kids along, as there are fish and turtle ponds. This is the kind of place I would have brought my kids when they were toddlers, had I known about it then!

Ready to Build Your Backyard Ecosystem?

Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful water garden, a thriving koi pond, or a complete backyard transformation, Domina’s Agway can help bring your vision to life.

$500 Consultation Fee — Fully Credited Toward Your Project

Let's create a pond you'll enjoy for decades.

Schedule your on-site consultation today.