WOODEN BRIDGES
Wooden bridges can provide a way to cross a pond or stream.  But, they also serve a more practical purpose, too.  Not only does a wooden bridge let you enjoy your pond from a different viewpoint, it gives you better access for maintenance.  While you are designing your pond, plan your wooden bridge and incorporate it into it's design for best results, rather than trying to add your bridge later.  Check with your local building inspector about codes before installing  your wooden bridge as you may need a permit.

A wooden bridge can be as simple as a weathered plank across a stream, or you can icon build a more elaborate bridge.  A wooden bridge will add architectural interest and direct the flow of traffic in the garden.  Don't just plunk a bridge down across the pond as it will detract from the icon charm of your water garden.  Your viewers need a reason to get to the other side, so be sure to add a bench, a garden ornament, or interesting plants.  This ornamental secret garden chair has graceful scrollwork with the look of an antique treasured antique store find.  Not only is it a sweet decorative accent for your water garden, it also is a comfortable place to sit after spending the day working on your pond.  The stylish and sturdy Garden Bench shown below, left, offers long lasting beauty with its clean lines and graceful curves.

Before building your wooden bridge, be sure to size it so that it is in proportion with your pond or stream in length, width, and height.  You will want to be sure to make the bridge wide iconicon enough to cross easily and safely.  The minimum of 2 feet is the narrowest you should consider.  If you have a narrow stream or a small natural pond, you can use a couple of wide, sturdy planks laid from one bank to the other.  If your wooden bridge will be more than 12 to 18 inches above the water's surface, handrails will be needed both for safety and looks.  Building a wooden bridge of any size requires a sturdy foundation for the support posts.  Depending on the size of your bridge, you may want to consult a contractor, as larger bridges, (those over 8 feet) will require larger beams, additional supports, or both.

When buying material to build your wooden bridge, or if you are working with a contractor, specify the use of pressure-treated lumber, as well as rust resistant hardware and fasteners.  If you will be using lumber that will be at or near the ground, be sure it is rated for ground or soil contact.  If your wooden bridge will be coming into contact with water, (such as the mid-span support for a bridge over 8 feet) the treated lumber should be rated for marine or seawall use.  Keep in mind that some chemicals such as creosote or penta-chlorophenol are toxic to fish and plants so you will want to make sure your lumber is not treated with those chemicals.
 
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If you have decided that a wooden bridge is appropriate for your pond, but are not sure how to go about designing one or don't want to build it yourself, you can purchase a prefabricated bridge, like the one shown here.  This wildflower bridge is 31 inches high can comes in five lengths.  It will enhance the beauty of any pond and enable you to view it from an entirely new prespective.