New life for old pond in Amado

The newly renovated pond at the Amado Territory Ranch is drawing attention from visitors, staff and even a hungry heron with a taste for goldfish.

The sight and sound of a healthy, attractive pond with a waterfall is an irresistible draw to those dining at the adjacent Stockman’s Grill as well as other ranch guests and workers following the paths that surround the alluring water feature.

“It’s so tranquil and really an amenity for the entire ranch” and surrounding communities, says the Amado Territory’s Steve Powell.

It’s a big change from the end of last summer, when the 20-year-old pond was in dire straits, Powell says.

The koi fish in the pond were producing an overabundance of nutrients, plus a couple of ducks were eating the pond plants that once had filtered those nutrients, Powell said. The water turned murky and pond crashed.

To remedy the situation, Amado Territory Ranch owner Art Gould brought in Tucson water gardener Ann Marie Bonito.

Bonito’s focus was on creating a healthy, balanced system, which she achieved by cleaning out the old pond bed and adding a filtration system, replacing the koi with goldfish, and bringing in a variety of new plants.

Work began in early September, with Bonito aided by members of the ranch’s maintenance crew. The structural renovations were completed by early November.

“I’m happy. I think it turned out well. It’s sustainable and natural,” says Bonito, who runs her own pond care and maintenance business and is a member of the Tucson Watergardeners club.

New pumps and plumbing recirculate the 80,000 gallons of water in the pond, which measures 70 by 30 feet, with depths of up to 5 feet. Adding to the aesthetic appeal are a new waterfall, a fountain in the center of the pond and new greenery.

About 20 types of plants, both in the water and around the rocky shore, are in place now, including floating plants, herbs, taro, primrose and more, Bonito says. In addition, she’s looking forward to doubling the variety of plants next spring.

The goldfish in the pond — which help keep the system in balance — have been drawing attention this fall from a large heron looking for a meal. Bonito is doing her best to dissuade this wading bird that has been swooping in to catch the fish.

Also making their home in the pond are hundreds of snails that Bonito has added, plus a couple of frogs.

Gould would like to see additional frogs in the pond, which, he points out, enhances the wooded ranch property and the ambiance of the adjacent Stockman’s Grill.

Gould’s plans include extending the restaurant’s back patio deck out to the pond.

It is one of 13 water features at the expansive Amado Territory Ranch, which also is home to artist studios, a bed and breakfast inn, a popular deli and more.

kwalenga@gvnews.com | 547-9739