Newsletter Volume 11-1 Page 2

Whether you are contemplating a pond for livestock watering, recreation or for wildlife habitat, there are certain design options and constraints that you as a landowner must consider. A suitable pond site should be evaluated and all design options should be assessed. Selecting the suitable site is important and preliminary studies should be done. The fundamental features that must be determined are; the adequacy of drainage area, topography, appropriate soil types, flood plain lines and property lines.

One of the most important features of a good pond site is an adequate drainage area. Drainage area is a measure of the number of acres contributing runoff to a pond site. To get the most bang for your buck a good pond site should achieve the largest storage volume with the least amount of dirt work.

It is also important to be aware of the surrounding topography and available soils. The topography and soils of the site should allow for an adequate storage volume that ensures a dependable supply of water to meet your needs. To minimize seepage loss, soils should contain sufficient clay. Clay soils are best for lining ponds because they reduce leakage.

As a landowner, you must also be aware of all restrictions governing construction of your pond. For example, according to Texas Law it is illegal to impound water on others or direct storm water from emergency spillways to another’s property without permission from the owner. This can easily be overlooked if you are not aware of it. Due to restrictions and permit requirements, it is also a good idea to stay clear of building a pond in a flood plain area.

After the initial site evaluations are done, it is time to consider your design options. There are two basic types of ponds. Depending on the surrounding landforms, either an embankment (dam) or an excavated pond can be built. If your site is flat, then a simple excavation is needed. If the area is very sloping, you can construct a dam across a watercourse, draw, or stream. Dam type ponds are a little more complicated, because an outlet pipe and spillway are needed to safely handle the overflow from large storms.

Other design considerations include; determining pond surface area, depth and side slopes. The surface area and depth of your pond will dictate the water available to meet usage needs. The surface area can be limited by topography but is usually managed based on landowner preference. The depth, however, can be limited by the availability of impermeable soils such as heavy clay. The steepness of pond basin side slopes can affect many things. For example, steeper side slopes minimize light penetration to the pond bottom. This reduces the aquatic vegetation that can infiltrate your pond. However, steeper side slopes create a safety problem where pond management is a concern. Other factors can be affected due to pond slopes and should be evaluated based on your particular need.

You may also wish to provide a structure that allows draining of the pond or provide for a constant release of water from the pond bottom. This can be supported through installation of a pipe under a dam or embankment with a valve for controlling water flow.

There are many options when it comes to designing ponds and each site must be evaluated individually. To obtain more information about your pond construction options you can contact the NRCS office at 903-583-9513 x3 and we will be glad to evaluate and assist you in developing a plan for your ideal pond.

This well designed and managed pond on The Cross Creek Ranch near Leonard, Texas adds eye appeal while providing livestock water and recreational opportunity. The Cross Creek Ranch received recognition from the district and Region V, TSSWCB for its outstanding conservation efforts in 1994.