If a tropical vacation is not in the family budget, consider bringing a little bit of paradise to your backyard by constructing a water garden or pond. Unlike a swimming pool, a water garden is shallow. Most projects will require less than 2 feet of excavation and can occupy an area as little as 8 by 10 feet. Once excavated, the area is lined with a heavy vinyl waterproof liner or a prefabricated plastic unit. Decorative rocks, small stones and coarse gravel can be randomly placed around and at the bottom of the pond. Contrary to popular belief, a backyard pond doesn't have to be a breeding ground for mosquitoes or other pests. Modern water gardens contain a closed-cycle pump and filtration system that keep the water moving and filtered. And what the filter doesn't take care of, a school of debris-scavenging fish will. Selecting the proper plants also helps the water from becoming stagnant by keeping it properly oxygenated, fresh and clear. And that's the On The House tip for today.