We'll I contacted the NRCS about the possible pond in the property I am considering. I will try to take pictures. The area is awesome and it looks perfect for a huge bass pond/mini-bass lake. Huge Pine Trees, a cabin that is close to the existing small pond...
Here's there response.
Mr. Ringler,
NRCS does not have any programs for pond building. It has been many years since we were engaged in assisting with ponds except where they are associated with livestock watering facilities. This is mainly because of limited staffing and our priorities shifting to water quality issues.
What I can tell you is that NY State DEC does require a permit under certain conditions for building a pond. Larger ponds (over 1/4 acre), ponds with a dike over a certain height or ponds built in a natural water coarse require a permit. Also a erosion & sediment control plan may be required if disturbing over 1 acre of land. If the pond is in a classified NY wetland a Wetland Permit is required.
NRCS does have a nice pond construction book that you can borrow, it is a full color booklet that is now out of print. I am not sure if this booklet is available from the NRCS Website but there may be other information at this site:
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/
