We built our pond on the side of a seasonal stream (stream flows around pond). We did this to avoid siltation. Our contractor graded the flow about 1-2 feet lower than I would have liked.

The stream is 2-3 feet wide and dries up about every 3rd year, but can really flow during snowmelt and heavy rains.

When the stream dries up, my thought is to build a concrete dam. It would have a flat base with sides that penetrate into the earth on both sides. Essentially a squared up U, 3 feet wide and 2.5 feet high. With in the concrete I would put a metal frame 2 inches wide and 2 inches deep.

This way I can use 2 x 6's to control the level of the stream, which will allow me to raise the level of the pond during the summer and let me lower it during the winter and spring run off events.

Any thoughts? Are there manufacturers that have something pre-fabed? Maybe of hollow plastic that I could fill with sand or concrete?

Thanks, Lavarock