A pond can be an attractive and functional feature of a rural property in Oregon, but it’s essential to build it in an ideal spot. Landowners should consider many factors, and a professional excavation crew like Excavation Oregon can help you choose a location for a pond. Whether your pond is to collect water runoff for irrigation or recreational activities like swimming and fishing, our team will ensure your pond is constructed correctly. Two of the most important considerations when choosing a location for a pond include soil composition and surface slope/depression.
How does soil composition affect the best location for a pond?
Beyond the topsoil, the ground consists of three basic kinds of material: sand, clay, and silt. Each has unique characteristics, including water saturation. Since sand and silt both allow water to drain through, it’s important to have enough clay to hold the water within the pond structure. Ideally, the ground around the pond should be at least 20% clay. ExcavationOregon can help you assess the soil to determine its composition.
Unfortunately, you can’t amend the ground to increase the clay content. You can test other areas of the property to see if the percentage of clay is higher elsewhere. Still, likely clay content will be similar across the property (unless you own extensive acreage, of course.) One option is to import clay material to line the sides and bottom of the excavated pond structure. Another more affordable but less natural solution is to line the pond with a synthetic pond liner; however, it will limit the pond’s maximum size.
How do the surface slope and any depressions affect the best location for a pond?
Water runs downhill, so placing a pond at the lowest elevation on the property will enhance its ability to collect water runoff naturally. Without capturing draining water, refilling a pond as it evaporates is expensive or requires installing a well to keep it full. Excavation Oregon will walk your property with you to help you find the perfect location for your pond.
Having a sloped property can be very beneficial to the design of a pond. When the property has a steep slope, excavators can build the pond with an embankment to capture the water within the pond rather than continue to flow downhill. Once the pond is full, excessive water will naturally flow down the slope.
On the other hand, it is possible to build a fully excavated pond on a raised, flat area, but there are maintenance issues the landowner should be aware of. This type of structure can create excessive erosion and flooding if the pond overfills because the water has nowhere to drain.
When you’re ready to plan your pond, contact the professionals at Excavation Oregon.
Building a pond that will function properly for decades begins with professional excavation. Our crews at Excavation Oregon are skilled at assessing land, helping determine the best placement, and navigating requirements for permits and approvals. We’ll clear your property of trees and brush and then excavate the ground to form the perfect pond for your needs. Ready to discuss the possibilities? Give us a call to learn more about the process and receive a bid on your project.
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