Livestock operators may need to contain contaminated runoff from feedlot facilities, silage pits or manure piles to prevent surface water pollution. Control works consisting of diversion ditches/dikes and holding ponds may be needed to contain the runoff. Include holding ponds as part of the feedlot design, which incorporates proper pen slopes to provide good drainage and pen drying. Construct holding ponds in impervious soils, or use man-made materials or imported clay as a liner to provide ground water protection.
The site selection process for the facility and the holding pond is a step by step process. The cost to the developer (time and financial) will increase with each step along the path. The geotechnical nature of the site and regulatory requirements will influence the required commitment from the developer. All sites require pre-screening and initial soils evaluation. For some sites this work will identify the need for a detailed site investigation.
The contruction technique used for holding ponds will determine the effectiveness of the soil seal formed. Detailed engineering may recommend installation of sampling wells to monitor seepage from holding ponds and to determine the effect on ground water quality. A regular monitoring program will allow corrective action to be taken when necessary