There is something energizing about the March / April issue each year. It signals the shift from planning to building, from winter reflection to a season of action, creativity and momentum. As our industry gears up for the busy months ahead, this issue is about putting your best foot forward, honoring your progress and allowing inspiration to guide the work you create this year. I am especially honored to host the 10th Annual Water Artisan of the Year (WATY) Awards in this milestone issue.
Reaching a decade of celebrating excellence is no small achievement, and it reflects the growth, artistry and innovation that define the pond and water feature industry today. What began as a celebration of craftsmanship has evolved into a respected platform that showcases the depth of talent within our community. In honor of this milestone, we are also unveiling a refreshed WATY logo — a modern evolution that reflects the prestige and maturity the awards have earned over the past decade. The updated mark maintains the integrity and symbolism of the original while introducing a more refined presence that mirrors the elevated standard of work being submitted each year. It is a visual representation of growth, honoring where we started while confidently stepping into the future of the program and the industry it celebrates.
This year’s awards were particularly meaningful, with more than 70 entries submitted and over $2,000 raised for St. Jude — a testament to both the skill and the generosity of this industry. As we celebrate the 10-year anniversary, we are also introducing new initiatives to further elevate the program and better reflect the voice of the professionals it represents. Opening the door for an awards committee and greater community participation is an exciting step forward, giving the industry a direct role in shaping categories, criteria and the future direction of the awards. My hope is that everyone participates as we continue to raise the bar together.
On a personal note, this issue, alongside the Water Garden Expo, also marks my one-year anniversary as the owner and publisher of POND Trade Magazine. I am filled
with immense pride and honor to carry the torch of this publication and steward a platform that represents such a passionate, knowledgeable and creative industry. Over the past year, it has been truly wonderful getting to know so many individuals across the field and having a front-row seat to the craftsmanship, innovation and shared knowledge that make this industry so unique. The willingness of professionals to support one another, share insights and elevate the trade is something that continues to inspire me every day.
This issue features a special WATY anniversary section, including the introduction, winners, runner-ups and a closer look at our judges, whose expertise and dedication help ensure the awards remain credible, inspiring and aligned with the evolving standards of our industry. Beyond the awards, this issue is designed to fuel both your mindset and your craft as the season begins. We explore the power of visual storytelling and first impressions, the importance of strong team culture as a business foundation, and the broader impact of recognition in “What Industry Awards Do for Pond Builders and the Industry”
From there, we examine the transformative role of planting in living water features, the elegance and reliability of Butterfly koi as dynamic design elements, the global innovation of the2025 IWGS New Waterlily Competition, and the biological strength of well-designed bog systems.
Collectively, these features reflect a simple but powerful message: our industry is evolving, maturing and gaining recognition as both a technical discipline and an art form. As you move into the season ahead, I encourage you to let this issue — and the awards — inspire your work. Be proud of where you have been, the projects you have completed and the knowledge you have gained. But equally, be proud of where you are going. Document your progress, refine your craft and continue pushing your standards higher. Here’s to a strong season, inspired craftsmanship and a community that continues to raise the bar together.
Until the next splash,
Lauren Nolan
Publisher, POND Trade Magazine
