Pond Publications

Before You Build a Pond: 10 Important Questions and Answers, Bulletin #2374 [2374 PDF version]
Landowners frequently call the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) (formerly the Soil Conservation Service) offices with questions regarding pond construction. The purpose of this fact sheet is to provide people with a few things to think about before they start to build a pond.

Managing Aquatic Plants in Ponds, Bulletin #2375 [2375 PDF version]
Frequently, people become concerned with plants in their ponds. High numbers of plants, especially algae, can be unpleasant to look at, cause odor problems, interfere with boating and swimming and may eventually result in fish kills. However, aquatic plants also provide cover for wildlife. Plants that flourish along the banks can prevent soil erosion. Fishing habitat can be improved with the appropriate plants. The goal for your pond should be to maintain plant populations at levels that will not interfere with the pond's intended uses.

Laws and Regulatory Requirements to Consider Before You Build a Pond, Bulletin #2376 [2376 PDF version]
Before constructing any pond, make sure you are following all existing rules and regulations regarding pond construction. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection is the agency in the state that regulates activities in protected natural resources, such as streams and wetlands, where many ponds are constructed.

Pond Troubleshooting, Bulletin #2377 [2377 PDF version]
This fact sheet will guide you, the small pond owner, through an outline of several common pond problems. We will also offer some alternatives that you might try to alleviate pond problems.

What You Should Know About Water Quality and Ponds, Bulletin #2378 [2378 PDF version]
Many pond owners are curious about the quality of water in their ponds. This fact sheet is designed to provide you with basic information about some of the factors that impact your pond.