Why Build a Cascading Waterfall Feature:
Besides providing the sights and sounds of a natural looking waterfall and stream, a cascading waterfall feature offers many things a pond doesn't.
Easier to Maintain
Because of all the water is contained in an underground reservior, hidden from the sun, green water is never an issue. Also, no filtration (and the cleaning that goes along with it) is not necessary because there are no fish to care for.
Easier to Install:
Since you're digging a reservior (basically a hole in the ground that will be covered with rocks and gravel) instead of a pond (a well designed hole in the ground with shelves and detailed stone work), it takes only a fraction of the time to build.
Lower Energy Cost Potential
Most Cascading Waterfall owners choose to run the waterfall only when they are there to enjoy it, minimizing electrical consumption.
Safety
With no standing water, children can safely play in the stream and waterfall.