New Name for an Old Pond

By Robert Seay, U of A Division of Agriculture

First posted on 06-29-2009

The English language just recorded its millionth word. If multiple definitions of the same word were noted, someone would still be counting! Certain name changes, such as those now used for “pond,” are well placed intentions to modernize a subject.

In farming circles, the terms “water impoundment,” “catch basin” or “rain garden” may result in a look of confusion!

It continues to be impossible for every farm to access a natural water source, and over the centuries, a number of ingenious methods were developed to ensure seasonal water volume and quality.

One individual, who arrived recently at the regional airport, commented about the surprising number of ponds that could be viewed from the air. Across the Ozarks, farm ponds were critical to the success of an agriculture enterprise.

Historically when farms were marketed their value often centered on the number and dependability of ponds. A dry pond was a liability, but within the past decade, the piping of Beaver Lake water throughout rural northwest Arkansas negated many concerns while serving to stabilize land values.

Farm plans often view the placement of a pond in regards to its value at reducing nutrient or sediment movement into streams or groundwater. From that perspective, ponds have always served multiple roles, a primary reason for the need of a periodic “clean out” to remove tons of sediment captured from the watershed.

Whether on 5-acre sites or a larger ranchette, newly arrived rural residents often desire to have a pond. Unaware of the critical role played by the watershed area, and without consulting anyone, they plunk down the money and a dry hole is placed esthetically perfect! An aerial inspection in late August will reveal that a number of dry ponds dot the landscape, illustrating that every spot is not a good pond site!

Some locations lack sufficient watershed contour capable of filling a pond. Other sites are finicky, and the risk is to cut into rock structure that will fail to seal. In these situations, a dozer operator with a history of successful pond work is worth his price, provided you listen!

If your pond refuses to hold water, you can now refer to it as a catch basin, sediment impoundment or rain garden. Keeping abreast of the Queen’s English can make one look good while staying on the cutting edge of environmental terminology. Til’ next week!

For more information about ponds, contact your county extension agent or visit http://www.uaex.edu, select Search and type in “ponds.” The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture.

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