Some ranchers, as well as those who operate feedlots, often use containment ponds to prevent excessive nutrient laden water waste from contaminating streams, ditches, or surface water. Chris Augustin, NDSU Extension area nutrient management specialist, explains that with last year’s wet weather, those with containment ponds need to check them for possible erosion and to repair any damage now, before the pond collapses.
“Most containment ponds are designed for evaporation,” says Augustin. “Last year, many ponds over-filled due to excessive moisture, but with this year’s dry winter ponds aren’t on people’s radar. However, ponds need to be checked routinely. A little erosion is OK, but then if we get a lot of rain it can hurt the structural integrity of the pond.”
If a pond collapses, the cost can be enormous to repair. Augustin advises people to check for leaks and make repairs now rather than have to fix the entire system. “It’s like the straw that broke the camel’s back,” Augustin explains. “It is difficult to fix the entire pond. Plug the leak now rather than wait and have to fix the entire structure.”
Problems generally arise with the spring melt and rains. “People usually experience problems in April or May when the snow melts and we then get rain,” Augustin comments. “The biggest thing is management. If a pond overfills you need to apply that runoff before it becomes a problem. If you have to pump the pond, apply the waste on level slopes and away from surface water. Spread it as thinly as possible. Keep soil texture in mind. Clay will hold more water than sand.”
He adds, “Excessive runoff can contaminate surface water. The nutrients in the runoff, if it hits streams or lakes, can cause algae blooms which create problems.”
Under normal conditions, Augustin says to spread the pond waste over the summer. “Apply this in July or August when there is the least chance of runoff,” he concludes.
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