Farm Pond Management

 Introduction   |   Managing Fish   |   Liming   |   Fertilization   |   Feeding Fish   |   Calendar   |   Drawdown   |   Calculations   |   Balance Key

Note that "Farm Ponds," as referred to on this web site, are recreational in nature. Calculations and management techniques mentioned here are not intended for use in commercial "farm ponds." For more information on commercial pond management visit the MSUcares Aquaculture section.

Click here for a printable version of this publication: Managing Mississippi Farm Ponds and Small Lakes

Boats at the edge of a lakessissippi is blessed with approximately 1/4 million acres of small, privately owned small impoundments commonly known as "farm ponds." These small impoundments range in size from less than 1 acre to over 100 acres, but most are less than 40 surface acres. Collectively, farm ponds and small impoundments represent a greater total acreage of water than all of the public reservoirs and state-managed lakes combined!

Traditionally, this tremendous fishery resource has been poorly managed. However, Mississippi farm pond owners can increase pond productivity and handle common management problems with just a little knowledge and desire. This site is designed to address the needs of current farm pond owners. Please click on the links on the left to find answers to your questions or to obtain publications in a specific subject area.