Landscape contractors are sometimes called on to build retention ponds. So if you're new to this type of construction, there are some things you need to know. One of those things is the difference between 'retention' and 'detention' ponds. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they don't mean the same thing.

How much does it cost to build a retention pond?

According to the EPA, typical costs for wet detention ponds range from $17.50-$35.00 per cubic meter ($0.50-$1.00 per cubic foot) of storage area. Dry detention basins typically cost around $10 per square meter ($0.30 per cubic foot) for smaller basins and $5 per square meter ($0.15 per cubic foot) for larger basins.

Are retention ponds man made?

A retention basin, sometimes called a wet pond, wet detention basin or stormwater management pond (SWMP), is an artificial pond with vegetation around the perimeter, and includes a permanent pool of water in its design.

How is retention ponds designed?

They consist of a permanent pond area with landscaped banks and surroundings to provide additional storage capacity during rainfall events. They are created by using an existing natural depression, by excavating a new depression, or by constructing embankments.

Why do neighborhoods have retention ponds?

A retention pond looks like a regular pond, but plays an important role in controlling stormwater runoff. The basins are important for storing and slowing stormwater runoff from nearby areas, especially areas with asphalt or concrete development.

How RETENTION PONDS Manage Storm Water Runoff

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Is it bad to live next to a retention pond?

While there are some advantages to living near a retention pond—peace and quiet, green space, fewer neighbors nearby, and a decreased risk of flooding—potential buyers have other factors to consider. For example, there is a constant danger of drowning for families with young children.

Can fish live in retention ponds?

They thrive on pristine water quality, lush plant growth, and are home to ornamental pond fish such as koi and goldfish. Retention ponds are found throughout America. ... They require high water quality and aeration to ensure a healthy harvest.

What is the difference between a detention pond and a retention pond?

Dry detention ponds temporarily store a volume stormwater runoff and discharge it at controlled rate to prevent infrastructure and waterbodies from receiving too much water. Wet retention ponds store a permanent volume of water for treatment of runoff to remove pollutants and sediments prior to discharging.

How do alligators get in retention ponds?

Alligators depend on water for survival. ... He said it's very possible this alligator hatched near the creek and needed to get out of harm's way – away from territorial adult alligators – followed some drainage pipes, culverts and ditches, then settled in at the retention pond.

Why does Florida have so many retention ponds?

Retention ponds can capture diverted stormwater runoff from these surfaces. ... The ponds provide two primary purposes: To retain the runoff before releasing it into streams.

How far should a pond be from a house?

Setting a pond closer than the recommended or regulated limits is likely to result in damage when the water overtops the banks. Even if you're not working with any specific guidelines from your zoning department or permit office, consider leaving a barrier of at least 50 to 100 feet between your home and a small pond.

How big should a retention pond be?

For these reasons, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says that “permanent pool depth should not exceed 20 feet. The optimal depth ranges between three and nine feet for most regions.” Howard likes to make his at least six to eight feet deep.

How deep should a 1 acre pond be?

Everyone wants a pond super deep. However, the average pond we dig is 12' deep throughout and depending on the size at least one area 15' deep. If the pond is large enough, say 1 acre we can dig a couple holes in the pond 15" to 20' deep and maybe 25' round.

How much water can a retention pond hold?

Amount of Flow

Detention ponds can handle hundreds or thousands of gallons per day, but the largest retention ponds can hold up a million gallons or more for months at a time. Yet a detention pond is better equipped to handle the sudden influx of rapid water flow that could damage a retention basin.

How do I keep alligators out of my pond?

How to Get Rid of Alligators in Your Pond and Backyard?

1. 1- Remove Leftovers.
2. 2- Install a Strong Fence.
3. 3- Put Up a Pool Enclosure.
4. 4- Try Natural Repellents.
5. 5- Try Alligator Bait Traps.

How can you tell if there's a gator in the water?

Telltale Signs

Check around the sides of the pond for large indentations in the mud or bank. Also, look for a slide area, stretching from the bank into the pond water. These two easily discernible signs indicate an alligator's presence.

Do alligators dig?

As a cold-blooded reptile, alligators undergo dormancy when the weather becomes cold. They are known to dig tunnels 65 feet (20 meters) long to protect themselves from extreme heat and cold.

Do retention ponds attract mosquitoes?

Properly designed, operated, and maintained ponds are not conducive to standing water and as such should not be fertile breeding grounds for mosquitoes. To help control mosquitoes in their wet ponds, some localities introduce mosquito predators such as mosquito fish.

Are koi bad for bass ponds?

People often ask us about keeping bass in their pond, either in addition to koi or in place of koi. ... If your koi are twice the size of the bass, that should keep them safe from being eaten, but they are still vulnerable to aggressive bass defending their territory.

How long do retention ponds last?

They are usually dry except during or after rain or snow melt. Their purpose is to slow down water flow and hold it for a short period of time such as 24 hours. Urban areas rely on these structures to reduce peak runoff rates associated with storms, decreasing flood damage.

How do you know if a retention pond has fish?

if you notice the bobber moving around the water, chances are you have a fish. Turn the radar depth finder on as you move your boat through the water. It makes the fish easier to find as you circle the pond. This is used in most fishing tournaments on lakes but can also work well in ponds.

Does pond increase property value?

Ponds provide recreational opportunities, increase property values. Many people enjoy living near a body of water. ... Lutz noted that studies have found that in rural areas, a well-managed pond can increase property values five to 15 percent.

Can you build on a retention pond?

Building a successful retention pond is much the same as building any pond, but more care must be given to the feeder streams. Additionally, you'll want to work more closely with your county or city land management office to ensure you don't adversely affect the surrounding water table.

Do retention ponds smell?

Unmaintained retention ponds can become a source of unpleasant smells as well as mosquito breeding grounds, toxins in the groundwater and cause other aesthetic issues. If your retention pond is giving off an unpleasant smell, call the experts at PowerVac today.

How much does it cost to have a 1 acre pond dug?

One-Acre Pond Cost

One-acre ponds cost between $3,000 to $8,200, or $5,600 on average. Keep in mind that your costs will increase if you want to add fish or a natural stone liner.