I appreciate the response Cary, but I must admit that I'm a little confused. After studying the Koi pond and water garden sites and forums, and asking questions, I got several suggestions that I should construct a "mud" pond - no liner. Are you saying that lining it with bentonite is not a good thing? I just ordered 75 bags, but I could probably cancel tomorrow. I already know right much about liners, but was thinking the bentonite would be a good alternative, and without the problems of trying to hide the liner. I have seen smaller ponds in the area with no liner or bentonite (retention ponds) and they seem to be fine. Some are pretty clear considering nobody takes care of them but Mother Nature. All the same I would like to have something enjoyable the first time around - not to mention the potential waste of money. As we all know - none of it's cheap!
