Do you have or need to build a retention pond?
Learn more about retention ponds below.
I will explain how the pond works and the installation process. We will learn about the types of retention ponds and their unique benefits and disadvantages.
Definition
A retention basin, sometimes called a wet pond. The basin or stormwater management pond, is artificial in design. Vegetation surrounds the perimeter. Some ponds can contain a permanent pool of water in its design.
General Construction
Retention ponds are constructed by excavating a land area to form a depression. This makes for the land area capable of holding and retaining stormwater. Often times the ponds will have a synthetic or clay soil liner for water retention. Retention ponds can have a series of outfall drains, pipes or spill ways for stormwater management.
Retention Pond Task
As you learn more about retention ponds, you will better understand their importance to the Environment.
In stormwater runoff, there exists everyday pollutants from roadway, parking lots and sidewalk services. Through stormwater management, water is directed to the ponds.These soils are designed to support unique vegetation and to absorb hard surface pollutants. Retention ponds are a way to direct pollutants to a location for pollution control. This control allows for the protection of our natural resources.
Retention Pond & More Benefits
The retention pond can eliminate risks associated with a large volume of stormwater run-off. With large capacity drains, stormwater is directed to the ponds. Here, water can be released back into the environment through pipes, spill ways or absorption. The release of the stormwater is determined by plans designed by Engineers. Retention pond design will determine the rate of water release as per design plans.
Retention Pond
The vegetation inside and around the perimeter of the pond carries out filtration on the stormwater entering into the pond.
Additional Benefits
- Creation of artificial aquatic and habitat.
- Offer ecological benefits to the urban landscape.
Types of Retention Ponds
There are two types of retention, we have a wet and dry retention pond.
Wet Pond
Also called a wet pond or simply a bio retention pond, wet retention ponds characteristically contain a permanent pool of water. They have a large depression that holds water all year round. The network of underground pipes installed direct stormwater to the pond. Any stormwater entering into the pond will replace the previous pool of water.
Advantages of Wet Retention Ponds
- Wet retention ponds are usually simple to construct if adequate space is provided.
- Improved water quality.
- Wet retention ponds have an improved stormwater collection and flood control.
- Provide recreation value.
- Wet retention ponds carry out water quality treatment without having to put in place additional equipment or machinery.
- Disadvantages of Wet Retention Ponds
- They pose the risk of drowning in a place where little children reside.
Disadvantages
- Mosquito breeding.
- Child safety.
Dry Ponds
Dry retention ponds are best suited for areas where there are ten or more acres of available land area.
Advantages of Dry Retention Ponds
- Hardy vegetative buffer for all seasons.
- Less expensive to construct and maintain.
Disadvantages
- Minimal water quality improvement.
- Can reduce adjacent property values.
- Require a large area.
Stormwater Treatment
Every retention pond has a general water treatment mechanism. The retention time causes the stormwater to settle inside the pond, thereby allowing for settling and sedimentation of pollutants present in the water.
Retention Pond Soils
These soils are present in the pond and of design specific. Often these soils are called bioretention soils and provide for water purification. The soils cleanse the stormwater runoff through filtration.
Pond Vegetation
Vegetation ensures ground stability. It is important to select a hardy vegetation of year round growth.
Bio Mix Soils Filtration
These soil mixes provide filtration and water treatment to stormwater. The soil mix design presents several benefits to a retention pond with the removal of impurities and contaminants. This removal process improves the quality of stormwater and provides for aquatic plant growth in the pond.
Questions
Retention Ponds in HOAs
Increased community development demands for permanent structures designed to hold water flow. These structures are called retention ponds.
How deep should a retention pond be?
Retention ponds are usually 3 – 9 feet deep.
Do retention ponds have fish?
Retention ponds are known to have fish.
Why are ponds dangerous?
Retention pond water can become contaminated with dangerous bacteria.
How far should a pond be from a house?
Make sure your pond is far enough away to avoid damage to the existing home foundation.
What’s the difference between retention pond and detention pond?
Retention ponds maintain water throughout the year. Detention ponds hold water for short periods of time.
How do you maintain a retention pond?
Maintain the earthen berm and surrounding vegetation. Reduce overgrowth and trees from the area.
How dirty is pond water?
Organic decay and water runoff contaminants can effect the quality of the pond water.
What does Bioretention mean?
The bioretention pond removes contaminants and sediments from stormwater runoff. This is done with the bio mix soils and vegetation.
What is a storm pond?
Stormwater ponds are bodies of water where stormwater runoff is collected.
Do I need a fence around my pond?
There is no federal law that requires fencing around a pond. Check with your city, county and or state for code compliance.
How often should catch basins be cleaned?
Recommendations suggest a minimum of 2 times a year.
How much does it cost to install a catch basin?
Catch basin installation might range from $2,500 to $5,000.
Can a retention pond overflow?
Severe rainfall can overwhelm retention ponds.
Bio Mix Soil Composition
Bio mix soils are a rich blend of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter in varying proportions, of which sand makes up the larger part. The purpose of the sand is to provide proper drainage and prevent the overflow of surface run-off.
Maintenance Tips for Retention Ponds
Maintaining your retention pond ensures it functions effectively. Regularly check for sediment buildup and remove debris from the water. Trim overgrown vegetation around the pond to prevent blockages. Inspect the pond liner and repair any damage to prevent leaks. Ensure the outfall drains and pipes are clear for proper stormwater management. Keeping up with these tasks helps maintain water quality and functionality. For ongoing maintenance, consider scheduling professional inspections.
Summary
Retention ponds provide for improved stormwater management and pollution control. The bio mix soils provide an important role in the retention pond’s effectiveness.
