Digging a supply ditch

49. After you have built a barrage and the water behind it has reached its highest level, you will need to dig a supply ditch to take the water to your ponds.

Dig a supply ditch

50. Begin by digging the supply ditch just behind the barrage where the water is deepest. However, dig it in such a way that the water in the stream will not flow into the ditch.

51. You can do this by starting the supply ditch about 1 metre away from the edge of the water. When you are ready to fill your ponds, you can remove this 1- metre strip (see Item 69) and the water will flow into the ditch.

Remove the strip

53. The ditch should have very little slope. You can use a straight board and a mason's level to help you to dig your ditch.

54. When you reach your highest pond, the ditch should be near the inlet. Continue to dig your water- supply ditch until you reach your lowest pond.

55. When the supply ditch is past the end of the lowest pond, continue to dig it downhill for about 10 metres. Then bring it slowly to the surface. That way, when you fill your ponds, any extra water will flow out at ground level.

56. Now, dig a small ditch to connect the inlet of each pond to the supply ditch.

Continue supply ditch