David,

There are exemptions for land (farm) owners. Of the five I know about. I qualified for three of them. I did not need a permit, and they were happy I asked.

The regulation is part of the 50 series I think. The Fort Worth group was great to talk with. They gave me links to a lot of great info and helpful publications.

Being a farm pond used for erosion control and habitat for my fish and wildlife was one of the main reasons, fire protection was also mentioned.

At 35 acres, several helicopter could DIP at the same time providing your area with a lot of reaction capability.

I just think you need to be able to talk their language to avoid confusion.

Ask for the regulation and read about the exemptions. That should clear things up for you.

Brian

The one thing is the one thing
A dry fly catches no fish
Try not to be THAT 10%