A Koi Pond That Doubles as a Fire Reservoir

Practical Beauty in Colorado Mountains

Bill and Dori Hamilton's property near Steamboat Springs includes a large koi pond (8,500 gallons) just feet from the back patio. It doubles as a fire reservoir—a portable pump and hose can wet the house if needed. Bill dug a 6-ft-deep, 25x50 ft hole with a mini excavator, lined with rubber, edged with river rock and sandstone. Three shelf levels hold aquatic plants (water irises, lilies); 100+ koi and goldfish inhabit it. Dori surrounds the pond with flowers: yellow 'Moonshine' yarrow, blue/purple bachelor's buttons, yellow daylilies, blue meadow sage, silver sage, Sedum 'Autumn Joy'. A bubbler and waterfall prevent winter freezing.