Lake and Pond Management

Available Topics

Aquaguides
Fact sheets to help you manage specific problems with your lake or pond.

Available Articles

An Introduction to Missouri Fishes
Missouri is home for 206 species of fishes, more than most other states. They range in size from the pygmy sunfish that matures at a length of an inch or less, to the paddlefish that reaches a weight of more than 100 pounds.
An Introduction to Missouri Fishes (3.5MB)
Fish are an interesting group of animals that provide food, recreation, economic impact, and endless fascination.
Clearing Muddy Ponds with Gypsum
How to clear muddy ponds with gypsum.
Conservation Contractors
Find conservation contractors in your area.
How can I improve ponds, streams, and wetlands on my property?
Resources to help you manage your ponds, streams and wetlands
How to Construct a Good Multi-Purpose Pond
There are several good reasons why you should use care in selecting a pond site. Construction costs, fish production, usefulness, and length of life of the pond are all affected by its location.
How to Establish Aquatic Plants in Your Pond (996KB)
Aquatic plants are an essential ingredient in a quality pond or lake. They form the base of the food chain and provide energy for nearly every form of life in the aquatic ecosystem. Learn how to add these valuable elements to your pond with this brochure.
How to produce bait minnows in ponds
An increase in the amount of fishing in recent years has increased the demand for bait minnows. With proper planning and care they can be produced without great effort, and a small pond can furnish adequate bait for a private owner or a fishing club.
Missouri Commercial Fish Producers (55KB)
Need to stock your pond? This document provides the name and contact information for Missouri commercial fish producers.
Missouri Pond Handbook (748KB)
This is your guide to building, enjoying and prolonging the life of your pond. Use the diagnostic tools, recommendations and the additional resources in this book to create the best possible fishing water.
Nuisance Aquatic Plants in Missouri Ponds and Lakes
Unwanted aquatic plants are the number-one pond maintenance problem in Missouri. They make their appearance every year with the arrival of warmer temperatures, and continue to annoy pond owners throughout the summer and fall.
Pond Area Estimator (167KB)
This sheet gives the basic formula to determine acre-feet. This is sometimes used to determine amount of herbicide required for some management practices.
Pond Stocking Application (920KB)
Application for fish to be stocked in private impoundments.
Private Pond and Lake Fish Stocking Policy
The Missouri Department of Conservation recognizes the potential contribution of privately owned ponds and lakes to overall recreational fishing values in the state. Under agreement with landowners, the Department will provide fish for stocking impoundments that meet certain standards.