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Ponds just go with the flow

July 17, 2012 at 11:39PM

Swimmers float past a tiki hut made of palm leaves in Brian and Renee Essig's back yard. (Provided photo/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Water plays many roles in the landscape, from swimming ponds and waterfalls to eco-friendly rain-harvesting systems. Two upcoming pond tours will showcase the best of the wet.

About the pond tours:

Twin Cities Pond and Landscape Tour

What:

A self-guided tour of 11 residential ponds, showcasing the latest trends and the work of certified contractors.

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 9-11 p.m. Saturday ("nightscaping"); noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Where: Featured ponds are located throughout the metro area, although concentrated in the western suburbs. For locations, visit www.tc pondandlandscapetour.com.

Tickets: $15; free for children 16 and under. Proceeds will be donated to the Children's Cancer Research Fund. Tickets available at www.tcpondandlandscapetour.com, at Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies and Aquatic Addictions.

Minnesota Water Garden Society Pond and Garden Tour

What: Self-guided tour of 13 western metro-area sites showcasing waterfalls, koi ponds and meandering streams surrounded by lush gardens. Homeowners will answer questions on construction, maintenance, plant choice and care.
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 28 and 29.

Tickets: $15 in advance at www.mwgs.org or call 612-803-7663; $20 tour day. Advance tickets include admission to the Twin Cities Pond and Landscape Tour July 21-22.