A farm pond is a pool of water formed by a dam or pit. There are two types of ponds - embankment ponds, which are water impoundments made by constructing an embankment, and excavated ponds, which are formed by excavating a pit or dugout.
How it helps
Prevents soil erosion by eliminating gullies.
Protects water quality by collecting and storing runoff water.
Provides water for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreational opportunities, fire control, and to develop renewable energy systems.
Adds value and beauty to a farm or farmstead.
Provides a water supply for emergencies.
Planning ahead
Are adequate soil conservation measures installed above or upstream from the proposed pond site to protect it from filling with sediment?
Is there a dependable source of clean water to fill the pond?
Is the soil at the proposed site capable of holding water?
Will the pond store enough water for the proposed uses—i.e. livestock, wildlife, emergency water supply?
Can you incorporate vegetative species that benefit pollinators?
Tech Notes
Provide for principal and emergency spillways.
If the pond will be stocked for fishing, the pool should have at least 1/2 acre of surface area and be at least 8 feet deep.
If livestock are present, fence the embankment.
The landowner should secure necessary permits and/or easements.
Divert runoff from feedlots, barnyards and septic tanks if the pond is used for drinking water, livestock, wildlife or recreation.
Clear all trees and shrubs within at least 30 feet of the dam’s spillway and embankment.
Generally, for every surface acre of pond, there should be at least 10 acres of drainage area.
Maintenance
Keep outlet free of debris.
Keep burrowing animals, trees and shrubs off the dam.
What it is