Farm Ponds Explained: Answers to Common Questions

Water scarcity is a major challenge in agriculture, especially in drought-prone areas.

In Kenya, 83% of the land is classified as Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL), receiving as little as 250mm of rainfall annually. Farm ponds offer a practical solution by capturing and storing rainwater, helping farmers overcome irregular rainfall and drought conditions.

A well-constructed farm pond can store between 5,000 and 100,000 liters of water, depending on its size, and can capture up to 80% of surface runoff, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This stored water supports irrigation, livestock, and even aquaculture, boosting crop yields by up to 50% in regions with inconsistent rainfall. Additionally, farm ponds help control floods and prevent topsoil erosion during heavy rains.

This article answers common questions about farm ponds, exploring their construction, uses, and role in sustainable farming. Whether you’re a farmer or an advocate for water conservation, this guide provides essential insights.

1. What is a Farm Pond?

So, what exactly is a farm pond?

A farm pond is a small, artificial water reservoir or depression in the ground that is created to collect and store rainwater or surface runoff.

It is typically used for agricultural purposes, particularly in dryland areas where water availability is scarce. Farm ponds are designed to provide a reliable water source for irrigation, livestock, and other farming needs.

2. What is the Purpose of a Farm Pond?

The main purposes of a farm pond are:

• Water storage: To capture and store rainwater or runoff during the rainy season.
• Irrigation: To provide water for irrigating crops during dry spells or in areas with irregular rainfall.
• Livestock watering: To supply water for animals, particularly in dry periods when natural water sources may be scarce.
• Drought resilience: To help farmers maintain agricultural productivity during drought conditions by providing a consistent water supply.
• Flood control: To manage excess water during heavy rains and prevent soil erosion.

3. What is the Typical Capacity in Volume of a Farm Pond?

The typical capacity of a farm pond varies depending on the purpose and size of the farm, but it generally ranges between 5,000 to 50,000 liters (5 to 50 cubic meters).

However, larger farm ponds can be built to accommodate more significant water storage needs, sometimes reaching up to 100,000 liters or more.

4. How is a Farm Pond Built?

A farm pond is typically constructed using the following steps:

1. Site Selection: Identify a suitable location with good catchment for runoff and that is away from flood-prone areas.
2. Excavation: The selected site is dug to create a depression to collect water. The depth of the pond may vary, but it usually ranges between 1.5 to 3 meters deep, depending on water storage requirements.
3. Lining (optional): To prevent water seepage, the pond’s base and sides may be lined with materials like clay, plastic liners, or geotextiles. In cases where the soil is already impermeable, lining may not be necessary.
4. Inlet and Outlet: The pond is designed with an inlet (to direct water into the pond) and an outlet (to release excess water if needed). A spillway is often included to prevent overflow during heavy rains.
5. Erosion Control: Erosion-resistant materials like stones or vegetation may be used around the edges to prevent soil erosion, especially after heavy rains.

5. How is a Farm Pond Sited?

When siting a farm pond, the following factors must be considered:

• Topography: The site should be in a low-lying area to collect surface runoff effectively.
• Catchment area: Ensure there is a large catchment area that can direct enough water into the pond during the rainy season.
• Soil type: The soil should be relatively impermeable, or the pond should be lined to prevent seepage.
• Accessibility: The site should be easily accessible for maintenance, water usage, and transportation of materials.
• Distance from crops and livestock: The pond should be located close to agricultural fields or livestock areas for convenience but far enough to prevent flooding from overflow.

6. How Do You Prevent Seepage of Water Once It’s Harvested?

To prevent seepage in farm ponds, several methods can be used:

• Lining the pond: Materials like clay, plastic, or concrete can be used to line the pond’s bottom and sides to prevent water from seeping into the soil.
• Compacting the soil: If the soil is naturally impervious (e.g., clay), the pond can be compacted to reduce seepage.
• Use of geotextile liners: Geotextile membranes are often used to line ponds in areas where clay or natural liners are not available.
• Vegetative cover: Planting grass or other vegetation around the pond can help minimize erosion and reduce water loss due to evaporation.

7. Where in Kenya (List of Counties) is a Farm Pond Necessary for Rain Water Harvesting and Management (RWHM)?

Farm ponds are particularly beneficial in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) of Kenya, where water scarcity and unreliable rainfall are common.

Some counties in Kenya where farm ponds are necessary for Rain Water Harvesting and Management include:

1. Kitui
2. Makueni
3. Taita Taveta
4. Wajir
5. Garissa
6. Isiolo
7. Samburu
8. Turkana
9. Baringo
10. Mandera
11. Laikipia
12. Kajiado
13. Nakuru (particularly in the drier parts)
14. Narok (especially the areas affected by drought)
15. Kwale (especially the dry Kinango and Lungalunga subcounties)
16. Malindi & Kilifi (The dry coastal regions)

These counties are characterized by limited rainfall, frequent droughts, and the need for efficient water storage systems for farming and livestock.

Farm ponds are a crucial intervention to enhance water availability and improve agricultural productivity in these areas.

Contact Us for Your Farm Pond Needs

For expert assistance with farm pond design, siting, construction, and consultation, contact us today. We provide services across all regions of the country.

📞 Phone: 0714004949
📧 Email: info@agriculture.co.ke

Schedule a field visit and get a customized quotation tailored to your needs. Contact us now and take the first step toward sustainable water management for your farm.

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