As the snow begins to melt and ski enthusiasts reluctantly bid farewell to the winter wonderland, pond skimming emerges as a thrilling alternative to traditional winter sports. But can you get into the fun even if you’re not a major ski resort? Yes! The popularity of pond skimming has led to its inclusion in many settings beyond traditional ski resorts. With some planning and creativity, pond skim events can be hosted by communities, universities, or almost any organization with access to a snowy mountain!
This article will cover the steps in building a skim pond from scratch, allowing you to host an unforgettable backyard party at the base of a mountain or plan a fabulous fundraising event for a local school, charitable organization, animal rescue, or dozens of other worthy causes.
Planning Your Skim Pond
The first step in building a skim pond for a group of giant ski resorts or a small outdoor adventure company is careful planning. Start by setting specific goals for your skim pond since those goals will closely affect your choices in design and materials as you build.
One Time or Annual Event?
Will your skim pond be used for a single party, or do you plan on hosting annual events? Will it be located on private or public property? Consider your long-term plans: are you likely to have continued access to this location for the foreseeable future?
The Location
A small private event, such as a corporate retreat or social club outing, can limit the number of participants and attendees, so a large venue with portable restrooms and abundant parking won’t be necessary. However, a winter festival organized by one or more municipalities will require substantially more room and infrastructure to support large crowds.
The Slope
Pond skimming evolved from downhill skiing, so you’ll need snow and a slope to work. The longer your pond stretches, the longer your slope should be so that skimmers can gain enough speed while maintaining control. Still, keep your participants' safety and skill levels in mind.
Ski-resort-style skim ponds often feature longer runs to allow for more extended skimming experiences. A minimum length of 50-60 feet is standard, but longer runs, extending to 100 feet or more, are not uncommon.
The slope leading into the skim pond typically has a moderate steepness. This allows skimmers to gain enough speed for an exciting descent while ensuring a controlled and safe entry into the water.
Smaller skim pond runs can be adapted based on the available space. A minimum length of 20-30 feet is a good starting point. The slope itself should have a balanced steepness. It should be steep enough to provide skimmers with sufficient speed for a fun descent but not so steep that it compromises safety in a smaller space.
Regardless of the size, the slope leading into the skim pond should allow a gradual entry into the water. A gradual entry minimizes the risk of injury and ensures a controlled descent.
Pond Depth and Dimensions
The dimensions of your pond play a pivotal role in its performance and aesthetics. Aim for a balance between length, width, and depth.
A ski-resort-style skim pond typically ranges around 40-60 feet long and 20-30 feet wide. While individual circumstances may vary, a typical resort-style skim pond is kept relatively shallow to minimize the risk of injury, usually 3-4 feet deep.
Smaller skim ponds should aim for dimensions that provide enough space for skimmers to gain speed and navigate the water. A length of at least 20-30 feet and a width of 10-20 feet will provide enough room for skimmers to perform maneuvers and enjoy the experience. Depending on the skill level of your participants, a range of 2-4 feet deep may be ideal.
These dimensions provide sufficient space for skimmers to execute impressive maneuvers while ensuring the water depth accommodates a safe and enjoyable experience. Adjustments can be made based on the available area and the skill levels of those taking the plunge. Smaller ponds, for example, may be ideal for beginners, providing a more manageable and controlled environment for learning the basics of pond skimming. If there’s enough room, more than one pond may be constructed to accommodate skimmers of varying skill levels.
Permits and Paperwork
Before putting shovel to soil, check local regulations and obtain necessary permits, ensuring a smooth, legal process and allowing you to fully enjoy your skim pond without concerns.
Building the Foundation
Excavation
Marking
Mark the boundaries of the pond based on the planned dimensions. Use stakes and string for accurate marking.
Excavation
Excavate the designated area, removing soil and debris. Pay attention to the desired depth and contour of the pond and stay within your planned dimensions; replacing and adequately compacting soil for a strong foundation is difficult.
Shaping and Sloping
Contouring
Shape the pond to achieve a smooth, gradual slope into the water, which ensures a controlled entry for skimmers.
Sloping
Gradual slopes are ideal for safety. Avoid steep descents that may increase the risk of injury.
Lining and Sealing
Lining
Line the excavated area with a durable material to hold water. Durable pond liners that can withstand rough treatment are commonly used.
Sealing
Ensure the pond is well-sealed to prevent water leakage. Check for any potential gaps or punctures in the lining.
Setting it Up
Water Supply
Controlled Source
A controlled water source, such as snowmelt or a nearby reservoir, can be tapped to fill the pond, allowing better water temperature and quality regulation.
Artificial Cooling
In some cases, artificial cooling methods like adding ice or refrigeration systems may be employed to maintain suitable water conditions.
Creating Slush
Mixture
Fill the pond with water and snow to create a slushy surface. This consistency allows skimmers to glide across the water more smoothly.
Adjust Thickness
Adjust the thickness of the slush to find the right balance between providing a challenging surface and ensuring participant safety.
Safety Measures
Mark Boundaries
Mark the boundaries of the pond to indicate the safe skimming area.
Safety Signs
Install safety signs and consider adding barriers or fencing to prevent unintended access, especially if children are present.
First Aid
Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit nearby for any minor incidents that may occur. A safe and secure environment not only protects skimmers but also enhances the overall enjoyment of the pond.
Test First!
Conduct safety tests before allowing participants onto the skim pond. Ensure the slope, water depth, and overall construction meet safety standards.
Making It Fun and Functional
Beyond the technical aspects, infuse your skim pond with elements that make it fun and functional.
- Create designated areas for skimmers to gear up and prepare for their runs.
- Consider installing night lighting to extend the skimming experience into the evening.
- Incorporate seating areas for spectators, including facilities like porta-potties if necessary.
- Consider inviting food trucks or setting up picnic sites with grills to make even a modest event a big success!
Maintenance and Longevity
Preserving the durability and functionality of your ski-resort-style skim pond requires ongoing maintenance. Regularly check the water level, adjusting as needed to compensate for evaporation or fluctuations in climate. Keep an eye on the liner for signs of wear and tear, addressing any issues promptly.
Season’s End
To maintain your pond liner:
- Drain the water from the pond and carefully remove the liner, spreading it out over grass or a non-abrasive surface.
- Wash it carefully using a soft brush and mild cleanser, if needed.
- Inspect the liner for wear or damage that may have occurred during the skimming season. If any damage is identified, make necessary repairs.
- Allow the liner to dry thoroughly before carefully folding it up for storage until next season.
- Store the liner in a protected area where it won’t be exposed to sunlight, excess moisture, or rough handling.
To maintain the pond:
- Clear the area of benches, skimming equipment, barriers, or other obstacles and store them securely to protect them from the elements.
- Erect temporary fencing or barriers around the empty pond to prevent unintentional access.
- Install visible signage indicating that the area is off-limits and that the pond is not in use. This helps communicate potential dangers to anyone in the vicinity.
- Consider covering the empty pond with a secure and durable material. This could be a safety cover, or a tarp, securely fastened to prevent accidental falls or entry.
Conclusion
Building a skim pond for your local community or private use is a journey that combines technical expertise with the joy of creating a unique space for exhilarating experiences. From meticulous planning and precise construction to ongoing maintenance and enhancements, each step contributes to the overall success of your skim pond. As you embark on this adventure, envision not just a water feature but a destination where the thrill of skiing meets the tranquility of a private oasis.
