Maintaining a Pond on Your Property
Ponds are a great addition to a property providing a wide range of possibilities. Whether you want to earn income, create a wildlife habitat or enjoy outdoor recreation, a pond can add enjoyment value to your property.
Maintaining Quality
Conservation incentive programs as well as local departments of natural resources are excellent resources for maintaining the quality of your pond. As a part of this maintenance; depth, volume, temperature and overall quality of the pond are monitored.
Enhancing the Catch
If you choose to designate your pond for fishing there are several practices that will enhance fish populations. Fertilizing and liming are two common strategies, while artificial feeding in the form of pellets is the most direct way to increase fish size without affecting an ecosystem. However, feeding yields the best results in ponds smaller than five acres. Man-made or natural structures as well as aquatic plants are additional options.
Population Control
Stocked fish can be a renewable resource if populations are kept in balance with proper harvesting. Fishing often enough to keep populations in check is an important practice. Overpopulation of recreational ponds leads to small/stunted fish among other problems.
Additional Considerations
Depending upon usage certain responsibilities will be required of the pond owner. Dams need periodic inspections to ensure integrity and safety. Who may access the pond and if recreation will be allowed also need to be addressed. Additionally, stocking non-native or exotic fish requires permits.
Ponds are a great way to increase interest and wildlife on your property. When done well, they can also add value to your property. If you are interested in learning about how to increase your properties value or in finding a country home with a pond, contact us today. United Country has thousands of agents across the country who can help you find your next country home, home with acreage, waterfront home and more.
