Pond and Lake Design

Fisheries management is a critical component of pond and lake design and successful management of a fisheries can result in enjoyable resources. Fisheries studies are usually multidisciplinary, drawing from limnology, aquatic ecology, population dynamics, management, etc.

Arroyo staff have participated in independent fisheries studies on small rivers and lakes mainly in the midwest; however, Arroyo staff have recently begun offering fisheries management services to their Clients. Since 2015, Arroyo has successfully developed fisheries management plans for Texas ponds and small lakes (<100 acres). These management plans have included:

• Overall pond/lake design
• Water quality evaluations
• Fertilizing
• Habitat improvements
• Fish population assessments
• Stocking and harvesting recommendations
• Fish stocking

Arroyo scientists continue to develop new techniques to incorporate onsite natural resources into habitat improvements and develop simple and effective management plans. This type of innovation has helped reduce overall costs for pond/lake owners and improve natural available habitat for desired species.

Recently Arroyo scientists completed the design, expansion and restoration of a 0.1-acre pond for a small farmer. The pond is a critical source of water for the landowner’s livestock and was drying out every summer. It now holds far more water throughout the year than it has over the past 70 years.

Before and after pictures of the pond (seen above), as well as maps made of the pond bottom surface (seen below), show the difference in elevations designed to improve water capacity, the amount of water sustained throughout the year and to improve existing and provide new aquatic habitat.