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Retention Pond Maintenance

08 Feb 2011

Retention ponds serve two main purposes: handle excessive run-off and act as a pollution filter. These “wet ponds” are a very common solution to storm-water treatment because of their capacity to limit peak flow and their efficient removal of common pollutants like:

  • Sediments
  • Petroleum hydrocarbons
  • Metals
  • Nutrients; nitrogen and phosphorus

One thing that is easy to overlook is retention pond maintenance. Retention pond maintenance is simple, with diligent observation. 

Plants and Algae

Emergent aquatic plants play a vital role in “catching” larger pollutants for easy collection before they can enter the retention pond. All types of higher plants; emergent, submerged, and floating can add to the efficiency and function of your pond. Too much of these aquatic plants can cause excessive organic buildup. See a lake management professional to find the species best suited for your retention pond’s purpose.

Algae can be a pest in areas where nutrient rich runoff makes its way into your pond. Beneficial pond bacteria are one solution to help prevent the ugly color algae can make the water. In residential zones this is even more important so as to limit the odor they sometimes can produce.  Use algaecides to control severe algae blooms.

Aeration

Retention ponds with aquatic animal life will greatly benefit from surface agitation of the water. Oxygen defused by pond aerators is added and other gases like carbon dioxide can be safely released. As the main mechanism of retention ponds is settlement aeration should be limited to near the surface.

Dredging

While mechanical dredging will be needed from time to time, adding chemicals that break down organic matter in ponds can be used effectively. How often you will need to dredge is dependent on the efficiency of the retention pond’s design.

Contact Sanco Industries for aquatic plant control, aeration options, and chemicals to extend the time between mechanical dredging. We know retention pond maintenance.