Q.)I want to expand my business and I am thinking about farm ponds and natural ponds that flow into a local stream. How do they differ from the liner ponds I am use to?
A.) The biggest concern is the increased responsibility of any pond that food animals drink from or a pond that outflow to a natural water source like a small stream. The ponds that NAPP promotes are ornamental ponds. Most of the products that are used today are not designed for or licensed for ponds that provide a water source for animals intended for human consumption or flow into natural waterways. If you work on farm ponds or natural ponds that provide water outflow to a stream you are taking on a greater responsibility and liability. Remember when working with natural ponds that source other waterways you may be working with a wetland and the legal demands are totally different from the ornamental ponds often referred to.
There is a great opportunity with wetland restoration work but that is something beyond the scope NAPP. If you want to pursue farm ponds and natural ponds with a water outflow to local streams you will want to check into the permits and licenses that are required. And also check with your insurance provider to be assured your policy will cover your activities.
