Updated August 7, 2006 | |
Purdue Extension | |
For questions regarding the content of this site contact Brent Ladd. For information on the Purdue Extension Water Quality Program contact Jane Frankenberger, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Purdue University |
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EEO Statement |
Ponds and Water Quality
In addition to beautifying the landscape, ponds provide important ecosystem
services such as storm water management, habitat for aquatic life, and ecosystem
health and stability. Ponds reduce storm water runoff problems by catching
and slowing the movement of storm water. They help filter and clean rainfall
and runoff water, and increase ground water aquifer recharge. Ponds in the
landscape provide for diverse flora and fauna, as well as many recreational
opportunities including fishing, swimming, boating, and hunting.
Ponds and mosquitoes, Pond management, Pond
design and construction.
Ponds
and mosquitoes
The Purdue
Extension publication titled "Management of Ponds, Wetlands, and Other
Water Reservoirs to Minimize Mosquitoes" describes why healthy ponds
and wetlands are not a breeding place for mosquitoes that carry West Nile
virus. It also discusses management actions to take to minimize mosquitoes.
[html] [pdf] (8 pages)
Pond
management
Proper
pond management can prevent problems and ensure a healthy functioning pond
habitat. Extension pond
management links provided by Cornell University provide information on
getting started, pond management, managing fish, algae, and aquatic plants,
and regulatory information from Extension sources across the US.
Small backyard and ornamental ponds are discussed in this Alabama Extension publication: Ornamental Garden Pools
Aquatic
Plant Management
Purdue
Extension provides the following publications for information about aquatic
plant management (PDF versions only).
Aquatic Plant Management (pdf, 20 pages) describes how to identify and manage aquatic vegetation.
Barley Straw for Algae Control (pdf, 8 pages) describes research on the success of barely in controlling algae, its use as an algaecide, and an illustrated guide to applying the straw.
Control of Duckweed and Watermeal (pdf, 5 pages) describes these plants and how to control them.
Fact Sheet on Toxic Blue-green Algae (pdf, 2 pages) provides the facts on this new important water quality concern.
Pond
design and construction
Design, site placement,
and construction are critical to the long term quality of a pond, maintenance
issues, and safety of family and community. The following links provide detailed
information on these aspects of ponds.
Ponds - Planning, Design, and Construction from the USDA (pdf, 1.8 MB) This 96 page handbook provides complete information on pond design and construction for landowners, engineers, and contractors.
Backyard and Garden Ponds from Alabama Extension