Pond Management
Whether used for irrigation, swimming or fishing, ponds require regular maintenance to retain their original characteristic and function. No two ponds are alike and should not be managed as if they are; the overall management of a pond may require the integration of several different management programs.
A "good" pond is like anything else in the landscape: it does not just happen, with regular attention (and sometimes considerable time and effort), it can become productive and beautiful.
Management Essentials Summary
Ponds require regular year-round maintenance to retain their original characteristics and function.
There are four areas of pond management:
- Pond & Watershed Management - Understanding design & construction concepts and maintaining the watershed.
- Water Management - Understanding & manipulating the physical and chemical components of water.
- Crop Management - Balancing fish populations for sustainable harvest.
- Pest Management - Controlling unwanted visitors to the pond.
Keeping records allows the pond owner and others to evaluate pond management decisions. Typical records kept include the application of lime, fertilizer or herbicides, addition to harvest of fish, and fish population analysis.
The following is a calendar of when typical management practices are implemented for ponds in Maryland. It should be noted that not all practices are performed on a yearly basis, for more information on each contact your local Sea Grant Extension or University of Maryland Extension office.
Pond Management Calendar and Record Keeping Log - Printable PDF
