There are few better ways to enhance a woodlot than by adding a pond. Yet, to many landowners, there seems to be something downright arcane about pond building, as if success depends on a combination of good luck, perfect weather, and the proper alignment of the stars.
Form follows function in aquaculture as well as architecture.
Forest ponds can be used to help control erosion, mitigate plantings, provide water for wildlife, and afford fire protection. Choose the pond site. Plentiful clean water and low-infiltration soils are the primary ingredients. This usually means a location where on-site springs are vigorous enough to supplement low watershed runoff during dry, hot summer months. A pond that continually overflows is healthiest.