Problem:  Historically, our upper and mid-watershed rangeland captured and held significantly more rainfall than today. Native, deeply rooted perennial grasses have been replaced with shallow-rooted annuals; in some areas poor grazing practices have reduced feed and increased erosion of these shallow soils. Rapid overland flows inhibit ground water recharge, dry up springs and streams, and increase down-hill flooding and sediment loads. Weedy species such as Medusahead and Starthistle are thriving, range management costs have increased and biodiversity for game and migratory and resident bird species is down.
Solution:  Install hill pond reservoir basins that capture, store, and hold run-off, provide wildlife habitat, water for livestock, and opportunities for added ranch income from hunting. Not only does water storage increase percolation and recharge into the soil, but ponds help sustain stream flow duration. The greater the number of hill ponds, the greater the impact on reducing erosion, downstream flooding, and sediment deposition - at the same time maintaining scattered drinking sources for cattle and wildlife. Hill ponds are an invitation to migrating waterfowl and resident water birds to establish annual nest and brood areas. Seasonal wetland vegetation prospers, providing a broader diversity and habitat for insects, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. In short, hill ponds are a win-win practice for ranchers, cattle, wildlife, habitat, and downstream neighbors.  

To read further on this topic from our resource library, select: Hill Ponds