Well... Contractor has been booked far in advance and I haven't had spare time anyway so haven't done much with my lake this summer. I still plan to drain it down to a depth of 10' or so and then do some work this fall and most next summer.

Now I'm thinking ahead to building a gazebo on the island. Not your regular gazebo. I'm thinking a three story one. First floor for get togethers, grilling, etc. Second floor screened in for sleeping. Top floor with a balcony for star-gazing and trespasser / wildlife watching.

Here is where I need advice. I thought about using wood posts as the supports; but I don't want coons climbing them and tearing up my mosquitoe screens or defecating. Plus wood eventually rots. I thought about using heavy iron posts (oil field casing); but someone pointed out that a tall iron structure on an island surrounded by water might attract lightning. That may not be a good thing. I thought about getting some 8" PVC and filling it with concrete. I'm not certain how strong that would be.

I've searched the web unsuccessfully so far. This site has a lot of people on it with a wide range of knowledge. Any advice or good links you've found?

Hey Ranger,How's it going?I read your post and had to jump in here and tell you about the one I saw that was built in the middle of a pond that was really impressive.It was built in the middle of a 9 acre pond that I treated for sago pond weed.It was constructed out of used telephone poles. They were set in the shape of an indian teepee.It had 3 stories and was fully inclosed.It had a deck around it and a top that had a light as to give it the appearance of a lighthouse.It is really an eye catcher.Give me a call and I'll give you the location you have to check this out.You'll have to have one.Hope all is well with you and yours. Doc

Your best information will come from your local building department. This type of structure will generally require permits and zoning prior to construction due to the height. I doubt that 8" pvc filled with concrete would be structurally sound at that height and it's not a listed building practice in the IRC 2000, but I don't know what code you are under in your area. Good luck with your project.

Thanks for the advice! Lakedoctor: I'll give you a call soon.