Pond FAQs
Do I need a permit to build a pond?
Maybe. This will
depend on the size of the dam, drainage area of the pond, and the source of the
pond water supply.
How much will a pond cost to build?
Costs for a one-acre
pond can range from a few thousand to over $10,000 depending on the amount of
excavation necessary and the availability of local clay.
How can I fix a leaking pond?
Leaking ponds usually must
be drained and a sealer (clay, bentonite, plastic) must be applied to the
leaking area.
What kinds of water quality problems can occur in
ponds?
The water quality concerns for a pond will depend on the use.
Temperature and dissolved oxygen are most important for fish. Bacteria levels
are the biggest concern for livestock or swimming. Hardness levels are important
if you are applying an aquatic herbicide.
How can I get rid of overabundant plants or algae?
Plants
and algae are best controlled by reducing nutrient loads (nitrogen and
phosphorus) to the pond. Otherwise, you can use physical, chemical or biological
methods to kill or remove unwanted plants and algae.
Do I need a permit to use an aquatic herbicide?
Yes! Any
application of an herbicide to a private pond requires a state permit. The
permit application is simple (two pages) and is usually processed within two
weeks.
What are grass carp?
Grass carp are nonnative fish that
eat some types of aquatic plants. Sterile grass carp can be stocked in your pond
to control unwanted aquatic plant growth, but you must obtain a state permit and
purchase sterile grass carp from an approved hatchery.
What causes a pond to look muddy?
Muddy ponds can come
from many sources. Bottom-feeding fish (catfish, carp), muskrats, wave action,
waterfowl, and livestock can all muddy a pond. Sometimes, excessive growth of
small plankton may make the water look muddy. You can determine the cause of
muddy water by filling a glass jar with pond water and holding it to a strong
light. Plankton can be observed moving erratically. Sediment will usually settle
to the bottom of the jar in a day or so.
What kinds of fish are best for Pennsylvania ponds?
A
combination of largemouth bass and bluegill has the greatest success in
Pennsylvania ponds. Other fish species may work under certain conditions but
often produce unsatisfactory results.
Can I stock trout in my pond?
Most Pennsylvania ponds
cannot support trout during the entire year. Most ponds get too warm to support
trout during the summer. Trout may be stocked during spring or fall and fished
out of the pond. Year-round trout ponds require a deep pond or a pond with a
cold source of water. Trout prefer water temperatures less than 70 degrees.
How can I discourage Canada geese from my pond?
Barriers
like rip-rap, fishing line, or vegetation that will inhibit their movement to
and from the water may be effective. Geese like to feed on vegetation around the
pond. Planting undesirable vegetation around the pond may deter geese from
staying for prolonged periods.
Should I regulate the number and kinds of fish that are harvested
from my pond?
Yes! Most ponds are poorly managed for fisheries.
Often, too many large bass are removed from the pond. Encourage release of bass
or only occasional harvesting of bass. Also encourage harvesting of bluegill.
