A retention pond is a catch-all term for a catch-all pond. Retention ponds are basins that catch runoff from higher elevation areas. They are often created near development areas and have been gaining in popularity to the point they are required in many
A retention pond is a catch-all term for a catch-all pond. Retention ponds are basins that catch runoff from higher elevation areas. They are often created near development areas and have been gaining in popularity to the point they are required in many instances with new development of buildings, parking lots, roads, etc. Detention ponds are also created in these instances. The difference between the two is that a retention pond typically always has some water in it, hence the name retention pond. Conversely, a detention pond detains water during rainy periods. They are designed to help control runoff and limit flooding during high water times. A detention pond will hold water for a short period of time and slowly releases it. A retention pond will typically have an overflow pipe so it doesn't get too high, but there is typically water at all times.
Retention ponds are often fairly small in total acreage, typically less than an acre. They are also usually shallow with slow sloping bottoms. There is also typically a large area around the ponds that can accommodate high water during rainy times. This design is for function and safety. Since these ponds are in public areas, the shallow, slow sloping sides are needed for safety if people happen to fall in. The large surrounding areas will provide adequate area for water storage when heavy rains are present. This is essential since most are installed near developed areas where the rain cannot soak in due to pavement and buildings. Often times, retention and detention ponds will be installed near each other in a row. The water will get held up in the detention pond and slowly drain into the retention pond. The detention pond will help eliminate flooding and the retention will hold the remaining water.
Retention ponds are developed to serve two functions, limi