That area of land is the watershed. Many activities that occur throughout the watershed will affect the quality of the run-off water, which, in turn, will affect how successful you are in your pond management efforts. Landowners who own or control the entire watershed for the pond are best able to ensure good quality surface water runoff. When possible, divert poor quality runoff from entering the pond. If diversion is not possible or practical, place grass filter strips between the runoff and the pond.
Watershed size is also an important consideration.
Watersheds that are too large may result in high sedimentation rates, turnover, and storage problems, while watersheds that are too small may not provide sufficient runoff, particularly during drought conditions.