Types of Ponds
The USDA identifies two primary pond types. Embankment ponds are created by damming streams in depressed land sites that will permit five or more feet of water to collect from runoff and rainfall. Excavated ponds must be dug in a level area where the water table is reasonably accessible or water can be pumped in from a nearby source. Each pond type may be also be referred to as a watershed pond, or a levee respectively.
Pond Usage and Location
Primary pond use will determine location and pond type. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension recommends watershed ponds for fish production and recreation because they are cleaner and maintain a natural ecosystem with less effort. Levee ponds are better for irrigation, livestock watering and recreational fishing because placement options are more flexible and drainage is possible if drainpipes are installed.
Soil Content
The Arkansas Cooperative Extension recommends that pond soils include at least 20 percent clay to allow adequate compaction to hold water in the pond. Levee ponds and core trench fill for watershed pond dams must be manually compacted using equipment designed specifically for the purpose.
Water Capacity
Evaluation of necessary water capacity for a new pond should include assessment of adequate spillways, number of gallons per day necessary to serve livestock or provide irrigation and the variety of depths necessary for successful fish production and enjoyable fishing. Control of healthy vegetation is also more challenging if ponds are too deep or too shallow. Both the USDA and the Arkansas Cooperative extension recommend 6 to 7-feet with quick drop off to at least 2 to 2 1/2-feet as an average productive depth for all pond uses.
Special Considerations
Pond design can be tailored to multiple uses. Designated fishing areas should provide plenty of natural places for fish to hide and spawn. Irrigation pumps should be placed separately from fishing areas. Fencing ponds to prevent fish escape is not recommended as it clogs easily. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension recommends a parallel bar spillway barrier designed by The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to prevent fish escape in high water.