Geomembranes can be anchored through an anchor trench or shelf, or through the use of a heavy ballast. When being used as a liner, the membrane is often covered with a layer of soil in order to promote conditions for aquatic life. This layer of dirt keeps the liner in place, and can also protect it from damage.
An anchor trench involves an excavated 'trench' in order to tuck one end of your geomembrane within. From there, ballast is added in the way of stones, gravel, dirt, or other heavy materials. In a small backyard, a trench depth of only 6 inches will do just fine. Larger projects may require up to two feet of depth to properly connect the material.