(507) 720-3450
info@fountainscapesandwaterfalls.com
About Fountainscapes & Waterfalls
Fountainscapes & Waterfalls is a specialty water feature firm based in New Ulm, Minnesota. We design and construct ecosystem ponds, pondless waterfalls, fountainscapes, and integrated water feature lighting systems with structural discipline, ecological balance, and long-term performance as the standard — not the upgrade.
We do not treat water as decoration. We treat it as a living architectural element. When designed correctly, water becomes the compositional anchor of an outdoor space. When built incorrectly, it becomes a maintenance burden. We build for the first outcome.
Certified Aquascape Contractor Applicant. We are an Aquascape-exclusive installation company and train directly at Aquascape Headquarters to maintain professional ecosystem construction standards.
Leadership
Owner | Water Feature Builder
Certified Aquascape Contractor Applicant
Fountainscapes & Waterfalls is led by Russell Sabo. The company was founded with a singular focus: to build water features in Southern Minnesota at a level that reflects professional Aquascape construction methodology — not general landscaping practice.
We are intentionally specialized. We do not operate as a landscape company that occasionally installs ponds. We focus on water. On flow. On hydraulics. On ecosystem balance. On rock placement that reads natural. On systems that remain serviceable years later.
We are not the lowest-cost option. We are the contractor for homeowners who value precision, durability, and professional standards over shortcuts.
Philosophy
Water features should not feel installed. They should feel integrated. The grade, the stone, the water movement, and the surrounding plant material should read as one system.
Our work prioritizes proportion, naturalistic composition, structural reliability, and ecosystem health. A water feature must perform correctly in July heat, October leaf drop, and Minnesota freeze-thaw cycles. If it cannot do that consistently, it is not built to our standard.
Construction standards
We build according to Aquascape ecosystem methodology and professional installation standards. Every project is approached with hydraulic planning, structural excavation practices, liner protection, and deliberate stone placement.
- Ecosystem-first engineering: circulation, biological filtration, and balance are built into the design.
- Structural excavation discipline: depth, compaction, and transitions are executed with longevity in mind.
- Service-access planning: pump vaults, plumbing runs, and lighting systems are installed for long-term access.
- Seasonal readiness: cleanouts, winterization, and spring startups are anticipated during construction.
Our approach
We emphasize scope clarity before construction begins. We refine layout intentionally. We plan hydraulics deliberately. We manage expectations directly.
We train at Aquascape Headquarters because we build to Aquascape standards.
Our objective is straightforward: to build water features in Southern Minnesota at a level that reflects Master-level construction discipline, regardless of project size.
Training & professional development
In February 2026, Russell completed multiple advanced programs at Aquascape Headquarters, focusing on leadership structure, ecosystem design refinement, construction efficiency, estimating accuracy, and maintenance program architecture.
Advanced Programs – February 2026
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Vision and Leadership
Operational structure, quality control frameworks, and disciplined company development. -
Design, Sales, and Construction
Integrated ecosystem layout planning with accurate estimating and field execution methodology. -
In-Field Construction Training for Foremen and Laborers
Hands-on excavation standards, liner protection systems, plumbing integrity, and field-level problem solving. -
The Business of Water Feature Maintenance
Structured service planning, seasonal ecosystem stewardship, and long-term system sustainability.
Additional field experience includes foundational Academy training and regional collaborative builds, including large-scale ecosystem pond projects and recreational pond installations.
Professional development remains ongoing as we progress toward full Certified Aquascape Contractor status.
Service area
Based in New Ulm, Minnesota, we serve Southern Minnesota and the Twin Cities Metro. Projects outside this area may be considered when aligned with our specialization and standards.
Consultation
If you are planning a water feature and want it constructed with professional discipline and ecosystem integrity, we welcome the discussion.
Call or text: (507) 720-3450
Email: info@fountainscapesandwaterfalls.com