In rain-fed regions, much of the rain runs off. A pond or tank turns it into a safety net.
Basics
- Catchment: choose a slope that funnels runoff to the low point; clean silt traps before the pond.
- Size: estimate rainfall × catchment area, minus losses; a pond should be deep rather than wide to cut evaporation.
- Lining: sandy soil leaks, so line with clay, plastic or concrete.
- Overflow and a safe edge to avoid erosion and accidents.
Uses
Supplemental irrigation at critical growth stages (flowering, grain fill), nursery water, and livestock drinking.
Cautions
Cover or fence ponds for safety and to cut evaporation; keep water clean, since mosquitoes breed in stagnant water.
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