Jersey,
The ACoE Permit process can be intimidating and cumbersome, but it is required in most States.
Navigate to Army Corps of Engineers web site and locate: Application for Department of the Army Permit (33CFR 325) � ENG FORM 4345 � Online.
Complete this two page document and send back to the ACoE with a nice aerial photo of proposed project area.
This puts the monkey on their backs! Hopefully in a few weeks you will receive a letter back from the Corps. That�s right, only a letter explaining that you have or do NOT have permission to construct.
If you get permission the letter will read similarly:
�We have reviewed your request for Department of the Army authorization for a pond project (Eitel Structure #3) in South Antelope Creek. The site is located in the SW � of Sec 34, Township 34 N, Range 57 West, Sioux County, Nebraska. Based on the information you provided, this office has determined that your work is authorized by the Department of the Army Nationwide Permit No. 43���..�
And that is about all you get from the Corps!
Once you get �permission to construct� from the Corps, check with other local and State authorities to get their blessing. Some engineering may be required. Engineering may not only be required but it protects you from your neighbors, your neighbors from you and you from yourself. Based on the height of your proposed structure, the amount of water impounded and the size of the contributing drainage area, your dam may fall into one or all of the following categories: (1) In case of dam failure; very little if any downstream damage will occur, (2) possible death of livestock, damage to downstream infrastructure, buildings and property, (3) Possible loss to human life.
I agree, its a very frustrating process, but look at the bright side; you may have a real nice pond someday!
Good Luck,
Ed
