CHAPTER IV: WILFLIFE HABITATS FOR MISSISSIPPI’S SGCN,
THREATS AND CONSERVATION ACTIONS^18611.3 Artificial Ponds
Value to SGCN - 33
Rank - 15th of 18 Lotic and Lentic Systems
DESCRIPTION
Throughout Mississippi there are an abundance of
small impoundments built as borrow pits, flood control
structures, recreational fishing ponds, farm ponds or
catfish ponds. Catfish ponds, which are concentrated in
the Delta region, often rely on wells for maintaining
water levels. Farm and residential area ponds are
usually created by positioning dams across small
drainageways or in depressions where runoff
accumulates. The contributing drainage area needs to
be large enough to maintain a suitable water level during dry periods but must not be so large that
expensive overflow structures are needed and water releases occurs too frequently. Farm ponds are often
fringed by marsh herbs, crops, pastures and forestlands, but many are also found in residential areas.
They provide habitat for fish and a variety of other aquatic species and are frequented by shore and
wading birds during winter drawdown and provide refuge during drought periods.
The artificial ponds are often managed as commercial or private recreational fish production areas and
are not usually managed for ducks or other aquatic animals. Most modern farm ponds are too deep for
waterfowl use and are built with steep sides to reduce the growth of aquatic vegetation. A good pond for
fishing is usually not a good pond for ducks. The introduction of black carp in catfish ponds is a
controversial issue in Mississippi because of the potential of this exotic species escaping from the
aquaculture ponds and becoming established in natural water bodies. Artificial ponds provide habitat for
shore and wading birds during drought periods and winter drawdown.
LOCATION, SIZE, CONDITION AND CONSERVATION STATUS EGCP, UEGP,
MSRAP
Mississippi has more than 130,000 farm ponds totaling 230,000 acres, ranging
in size from one-half acre to five acres. Management of artificial ponds, such as
herbicide treatment of aquatic weeds and adding pond bottom structure, is often
designed to improve recreational fishing opportunities. Artificial ponds are
widespread and abundant and are not considered likely to decline in extent or
value to wildlife in the future.
(^) Range of Artificial Ponds