water retention and Detention ponds.

With the storms that are bearing down on our area today, this subject seems particularly relevant.

Water retention and detention ponds: What's the difference and when should you use each?

Retention ponds: these are what you picture in your mind when you think of a traditional pond.  Water pools here and stays here permanently, allowing soil and sediments to settle to the bottom.  Water conservation and management is a key benefit of this structure, but these are also aesthetically pleasing with recreational benefits such as fishing, kayaking, etc. for developers and land owners, and offer access to water for farmers and their livestock.

Detention ponds: these ponds are useful in heavy rain and runoff events.  Water pools here for a short period of time, allowing some settling of particles, and is then slowly released.  These allow for more controlled drainage in order to prevent erosion whether in an urban, paved setting or in a rural location.

Whether it's retention or detention you're looking for, Gravel Grading & Excavating has your solution.  With over a decade of experience in water conservation and erosion control, we can successfully plan and construct the pond that is just right for you.

For more information and sources for this post, please refer to the links found in the buttons below:

Laramie County Conservation

Sustainable Stormwater Management