POND Trade Magazine is proud to announce the return of its Water Artisans of the Year (WATY) contest for 2025. This annual celebration of innovative and artistic water-feature creations is known as the “Academy Awards of the Pond Industry.” Through this prestigious competition, we showcase the talent, creativity, and craftsmanship of pond builders and designers.
Now entering its ninth year, the contest honors excellence across multiple categories, from intimate, garden-sized water features to sprawling, resort-caliber installations. Winners will be recognized in an upcoming issue of POND Trade Magazine. They will join a celebrated legacy of past honorees whose work has set new benchmarks for the industry. An elite panel of water feature experts will judge this year’s competition. Each brings a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to the selection process.
Meet the 2025 Water Artisan of the Year Judges
Tim Waddington – Quality Nishikigoi / Koi Trips
Co-owner of Quality Nishikigoi, one of the UK’s largest Japanese koi outlets, Tim Waddington is an accomplished pond builder and designer. During more than two decades in the koi industry, he has constructed and managed projects of all sizes, from private garden ponds to large-scale commercial installations. He is a regular contributor to koi publications on pond design and construction. With over 60 buying trips to Japan, Tim has cultivated exceptional relationships with top breeders. He has also supplied Grand Champion koi to major shows worldwide.
Ryan Farnol – Platinum Ponds & Landscaping
As founder of Platinum Ponds & Landscaping in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and a Master Certified Aquascape Contractor, Ryan Farnol blends artistic vision with technical precision. With nearly two decades of experience, Ryan has built a reputation for innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship. A former Water Artisans of the Year winner, Ryan returns as a judge, bringing his passion for excellence.
Since 2013, Kendahl Kreps has served as the Director of Marketing for Atlantic-Oase, where she has shaped the brand’s presence across North America. With over a decade of industry experience, Kendahl has a sharp eye for design, a talent for storytelling and a deep appreciation for artfully executed water features. Her insight into both aesthetics and the business of water-feature creation makes her a valued addition to the judging team.
The founder of Flow Landscape in Corona, California, Stan Suh is a Master Certified Aquascape Contractor. Celebrated for his low-maintenance ecosystem ponds and nature-inspired designs, he has more than 15 years of experience in large-scale commercial landscape construction. Stan has an unmatched ability to merge durability with beauty. Winner of the “Pondless” category in the 2024, Stan will bring his keen technical and artistic eye to the judging.
Craig McBride – SwimPond / Pond Professionals Alliance (PPA)
Craig McBride’s career in aquatic design spans decades, beginning as an aquarium hobbyist and evolving into founding All Aquatics and SwimPond.com in Texas. As Co-Founder of the Pond Professionals Alliance, Craig is a leader in industry education, standards, and collaboration. Known for spearheading large-scale, ecosystem-focused builds like the celebrated PPA Swim Pond at the 2025 Water Garden Expo, Craig’s judging role reflects his dedication to innovation, mentorship, and sustainable aquatic design.
Chris Thompson – Just Add Water
Chris Thompson, founder of Just Add Water in Des Moines, Iowa, is a Master Certified Aquascape Contractor whose work blends beauty with functionality. Since building his first waterfall in 2005, Chris has become known for creating ponds, waterfalls, and fountains that harmonize human enjoyment with aquatic health. In 2025, he earned Water Artisans of the Year honors in the Recreational Pond category. The swim-pond seamlessly merged a koi habitat with swimming space. His creative vision and passion for client collaboration will play a central role in the judging process.
The Call for Entries for the 2025 Water Artisans of the Year Contest
The 2025 Water Artisans of the Year contest is now open for submissions. Entries will be evaluated on design originality, execution, and the artistic integration of water into the surrounding environment. Winners will be announced in POND Trade Magazine. The feature will cement their status among the industry’s most accomplished artisans. For official rules, category details, and entry deadlines, click here.
