Fitz’s Fish Ponds has officially opened its newest retail location at the former site of Waterford Gardens, one of the oldest water gardening properties in the country.
Originally founded in 1895 by William Tricker, Waterford Gardens was once among the first water lily farms in America. After years of decline, the site was acquired and revitalized by Fitz’s Fish Ponds, which restored its ponds, greenhouse and infrastructure while preserving its historic legacy.
“We knew how important this place was to so many people,” said Fitz’s Fish Ponds founder Brian Fitzsimmons. “Our goal was to respect that history while creating something that could thrive today.”
The grand opening celebration drew hundreds of visitors over two days and featured koi and product giveaways, educational seminars, and aquascaping demonstrations. Saddle River Mayor Albert Kurpis praised the transformation, calling it “a continuation of a legacy the community values deeply.”
Educational highlights included fish health seminars with aquatic veterinarian Dr. Ben Rosenbloom and a live tank aquascaping demo led by Jennifer Bujalski, manager of FFP Aquariums and Aquascaping. The custom aquascape created during the event is now on permanent display at the store.
Now fully operational, the Saddle River, New Jersey, location offers Japanese koi, aquatic plants, pond equipment and supplies. The restoration blends history with modern functionality, creating a full-service destination for pond enthusiasts in the region.
“This is more than a store—it’s a place where people connect over a shared passion for ponds, plants and fish,” Fitzsimmons said.
For more information, visit www.fitzfishponds.com or view the grand opening recap at youtube.com/watch?v=achAtGDIDa8.
