Pond Boss Forums POND CONSTRUCTION Selecting a site TOPO NEWBIE

Ok, I am starting to look at land to potentially build a house and pond on. I came across this lot. Its about 5.01 acres. I doubt I will actually purchase this parcel of land but I'd like to know what you guys see and what you guys think of the lay out for a prospective pond on this land. I am also buying some books from the resource guide so tha tI won't be too much of a bother with my questions

Here is the topo.

Hey RBB,
That's a tough, low resolution and small section of topo map with which to prepare a pond potential assessment. It appears that the land continues to fall off to the NE. This would indicate that a pretty large dam would be required to stop the run-off. But...once again...it is very difficult to judge.
Some of the best pond-able properties have a topo that contains a "bowl" within the parcel boundaries. This can also occur in a ravine that runs thru the property. The best and most "economical to build" pond properties are located at the very beginning of what eventually becomes a run-off creek. The top and widest part of the funnel, if you will.
I used this method to find our pond property

Thanks brettski. I have been following your pond venture for the last couple of days. Its amazing what you've done/

Thank you RBB. As I look back over my shoulder and consider what to do with it all, my goal becomes inspiration for those that follow.
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As I look a little more at your topo, it appears that the parcel is just below the summit of the surrounding terrain. The parcel has has a gentle gradual slope, with a few areas that roll back up, then down. If you are near the summit as I surmise, the drainage area might be slight. Drainage is key; its the source for your pond. It's all relative with varying degrees. If the pond is smaller, a smaller drainage area will suffice. Also, the amount of avg precip in the region plays big. Are you looking at those areas of roll on the parcel as possible pondsites?

RBB
The TOPO is the best place to start. Get on the ground as fast as you can and compare the map to what is actually there. It will really make the next topo map you look a lot easier to understand.

Thanks all. This was just a plot near my current house. It is looking like I will be moving to Norther VA in the next year or two so I am looking at acreage over there but the links and information on here will aid in my search for a nice plot out there.

It occurs to me after reading this post that we should have an archive regarding how to search for and evaluate a potential pond property. I looked through the archives and the closest I could find was Brettski's chasing a dream link.

That link you posted above Bski contained very useful information regarding how to find realtors and convey your property requirements and through your self education and experience have written many excellent responses regarding land selection and evaluation. Seems like this information should be gathered in an archive.

Same goes for you Otto. I had the pleasure of working with a good equipment contractor and was amazed at what they saw in the land that I never noticed. Subtle contour lines and angles that since they moved dirt they were able to easily see that I had looked at countless times in the past and just never noticed.

Bski, looking back over your posts is an amazing journey.