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.