Ponds

Ponds are beautiful to look at, but they can be a headache and expensive if not maintained properly. Many ponds are man-made and have dams that require maintenance and repair. Some dams fall under the jurisdiction of the state’s Dam Safety Program (http://www.dlr.enr.state.nc.us/pages/damsafetyprogram.html ). Ponds can also become choked with aquatic weeds that affect plant and animal life. For information about ponds, check the following Web site: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/nreos/wild/fisheries/index.html Before purchasing property with a pond, find out the status of the pond from the owner. The Dam Safety staff in the DENR regional office that serves your area may be able to provide you with information about any dams that are regulated by the state. The county Cooperative Extension Service may be able to help you with information and guidance if you’re thinking about buying land with a pond or want to build a pond on the property. A county-by-county listing of local Cooperative Extension Service offices is available through the following Web site: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/index.php?page=countycenters