Building a Farm Pond or Retention Basin
It is important to know the differences between farm ponds, retention basins and detention basins. Retention basins and farm ponds have some overlapping characteristics, but detention basins are much different.
Before you begin, we suggest that you first start here: Pond Identification
Now that you have a clear understanding between the different types of ponds, what do you need to do if you want to build one?
Building a Farm Pond in Kansas
In Kansas, a landowner may need a permit to build a pond, depending on the size. Size is a big issue and this section will provide important guidelines, such as permits required, type of soil needed, etc.
Designing a Farm Pond
The first step in designing a farm pond is selecting the proper location. Soils and watershed quality are very important considerations. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is the agency to contact for their pond design and construction expertise.
In Johnson County, contact
Gayla Speer District Manager, Johnson County Conservation District 913-715-7022 gayla.speer@jocogov.org
Farm Pond Design and Construction Publications
- The United States Department of Agriculture has a publication you can download titled Ponds -- Planning, Design, Construction
- Another useful publication is your local County Soil Survey book. It can help identify good pond building sites, and discusses soil properties.
- Printed version: Available free from the USDA Service Center serving your county. Locate your USDA Service Center
- Web version: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/HomePage.htm
- Kansas Department of Agriculture Planting Grass on Dams, Vegetation Embankment Protection
Additional Resources
The United State Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a valuable resource for information.
Farm Pond Permits and Regulations
The design and construction of farm ponds is regulated by federal, state and county governments. This is done to protect you, your neighbors and the public. For more information: Farm Pond Permit Requirements
The Johnson County Public Works Department has guidelines for possible permits. Check out their web site for details.
Farm Pond Permit Requirements in Kansas This page lists federal and Kansas state agencies that can help you through the regulation and permitting process
