Landscaping and Stuff?

I saw this ripple effect 'plastic' (dark greenish in color) that so close to real water than many I've seen or heard.
I will investigate a chunk of 'clear' plastic to paint underneath....or even find out where this one came from....it was amazing!!
 
Cheetah: Reference your question, "what are the old wooden tunnel portals made of"? Answer--- Wood. Or if you are talking about the model ones, cast plaster or wood. The colors of the wood will depend on its age. New creosoted timbers will be almost black. aging turns bare wood to a greyish color. You may find several shades on one piece.
I noticed an article in a magazine awhile back about a particular kind of party balloon that has a good simulated water surface.
 
Cheetah: Reference your question, "what are the old wooden tunnel portals made of"? Answer--- Wood. Or if you are talking about the model ones, cast plaster or wood. The colors of the wood will depend on its age. New creosoted timbers will be almost black. aging turns bare wood to a greyish color. You may find several shades on one piece.
I noticed an article in a magazine awhile back about a particular kind of party balloon that has a good simulated water surface.

Thanx Jim
party balloon eh?....stretched out I imagine...hmmm
 
Actually Cheetah, I don't think it was an inflatable balloon. I believe it was a wall decoration with a cardboard insert. The author cut it to size, placed it on his layout and landscaped around the edges with plants, rocks and dirt. It looked pretty good as a small pond.
 
Couple of quick questions on Making the Mountains.......
1- will using 'chicken wire' effect any power from the trains(wiring)?
2- can you just not use narrow long boxes to put plaster on?..why not?
3- Hyrdocal dries fast..whats the next best plaster to buy?
4- is 'carpenter glue' the best to mix 50/50 solution with water?
5- does this dry hard enough?...(sticks)
6- if so, ...what types are there?
thank you :(