Whether it's in a tub or a 2,000-gallon pond, a water garden can provide hours of pleasure, relaxation and inspiration. Gazing at a surface of water is relaxing by itself, and the enjoyment is enhanced when the observer sees fish swimming in the enclosure or appreciates the fragile beauty of waterlilies in the pond or plants reflected on the surface.

Gardeners who are concerned with water conservation can install a water garden with a clear conscience because studies show that water-filled gardens use less water than the same area when planted in grass. One thousand square feet of grass consumes 27,000 gallons annually, while a 15-by- 30-foot pool surrounded by decking requires 17,000 gallons per year.

Larry Tannas has converted much of his back yard in Orange into a serene haven containing two large water ponds, several aviaries and lush plantings. "I started with a tub, a waterlily and a few fish," he said. "The family enjoyed the water garden so much that we gradually expanded to our present setup."

Ten years ago, Tannas and his wife decided to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary with the creation of a water garden. He had pleasant memories of a koi pond that was part of his childhood home in Wilmington, and he created a similar one.

Using a plastic liner, he reinforced it with chicken wire and concrete. Today, the 500-gallon pond contains 10 large koi. Five years ago, he decided to build another pond, one that could support ducks and an aviary. He designed a 1,000-gallon pond and added a 16-by-16-by-8-foot aviary containing ducks, quail and pheasant that partially encloses it.

A 5-foot waterfall adds a rhythmic cadence to the serene setting. The exposed section contains five waterlily plants and other greenery.

"It takes work and planning to create a successful water garden," Tannas cautioned. "I like an ecological balance so my ponds have the necessary fish and plants that make my ponds self-sustaining."

Water garden expert Bill Uber agrees that advance planning should be the first step to creating a water garden. "Do you want a koi pond or a water garden? Do you want a waterfall or a fountain? These are just some of the factors that determine what type of setup is appropriate," he said.

Uber is the third generation of his family to operate Van Ness Water Gardens in Upland, and he's the author of "Water Gardening Basics."