Many ponds have been constructed throughout the U.S. only to become unusable eyesores due to poor planning and construction in unsuitable locations. The three most important characteristics of a desirable pond site are an adequate supply of good quality water, topography that can be economically converted into a pond, and soil that will hold water. Adequate drainage is another important characteristic of a good pond site. The property’s drainage outlet must be considered when siting and designing a pond. Check with the local office of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for soil type and topographic maps as well as aerial photographs. The local office of the NRCS can provide valuable assistance in determining if soil types and proposed locations on your property are suitable for pond construction. Offices of state or federal geological surveys may also have useful maps. Neighbors, surveyors, or government planning agencies may also have useful maps and other information.

Browse related Faqs by tag: ponds, freshwater aquaculture