A Guide to Effective HOA Pond Maintenance for Community Managers

Ponds in residential communities often serve dual roles: they provide visual appeal and act as important components of stormwater management systems. In Michigan, where seasonal changes, nutrient runoff, and shoreline erosion can affect pond health, homeowners associations (HOAs) and property managers have a responsibility to ensure these waterbodies remain functional and environmentally balanced.

This guide outlines key considerations for maintaining stormwater ponds and highlights some of the challenges Michigan communities face—from invasive species to sediment buildup—and how thoughtful, science-based management strategies can help address them.

Understanding the Purpose of Stormwater Ponds

Stormwater ponds are not simply for aesthetics—they're engineered to collect and manage runoff from rooftops, roads, sidewalks, and lawns. By slowing and storing stormwater, these systems help reduce downstream flooding, control erosion, and improve water quality before the water re-enters natural waterways.

There are two common types:

1. Retention ponds (wet ponds) maintain a permanent pool of water and provide ongoing treatment of stormwater.
2. Detention ponds (dry ponds) temporarily hold runoff and are designed to drain after rainfall events.

Both types are essential parts of urban infrastructure and are subject to municipal and environmental regulations. Without proper care, they can fail to perform their intended function, leading to environmental and infrastructure challenges.

Common Pond Management Issues in Michigan

1. Shoreline Erosion and Sedimentation
   Over time, Michigan ponds often experience shoreline degradation due to wave action, freeze-thaw cycles, and vegetation loss. As shorelines erode, sediment accumulates on the pond bottom, gradually reducing storage capacity and contributing to nutrient cycling that promotes excessive aquatic growth.
   
   Left unchecked, this sedimentation may lead to impaired drainage, increased flooding risk, and a need for more intensive interventions. Establishing vegetated buffer zones with native plants can help stabilize banks and reduce erosion.
2. Invasive Aquatic Plants
   Michigan ponds are vulnerable to invasive aquatic plants such as Eurasian watermilfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, and hybrid cattails. These species can outcompete native vegetation, disrupt flow patterns, and degrade habitat for native aquatic life. Monitoring and early identification are key to managing them effectively and minimizing the use of herbicides or mechanical removal later on.
3. Nutrient Loading and Algae Blooms
   Stormwater runoff often carries nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen from fertilizers, pet waste, and decaying vegetation into ponds. These nutrients feed algae and lead to blooms that reduce oxygen levels, cause odor issues, and potentially result in fish kills. In Michigan’s warmer months, these blooms can become especially problematic.
   
   Reducing nutrient sources—like managing lawn fertilizer use and promoting native buffer plantings—is the first line of defense. In some cases, in-pond treatments such as alum or phosphorus-binding agents may be appropriate.
   
   

The Role of Aeration

Aeration systems, including diffused air systems and surface fountains, help increase dissolved oxygen levels in pond water. This promotes the breakdown of organic matter and supports healthy microbial activity that naturally limits excess nutrients. In Michigan, aeration can also help prevent winter fish kills by maintaining open water areas and improving circulation under ice.

Hydraulic Dredging: A Sustainable Approach to Sediment Removal

In ponds where sediment accumulation has significantly reduced depth or disrupted pond function, hydraulic dredging is a valuable restoration tool. Unlike traditional dredging, which requires draining the pond and heavy excavation, hydraulic dredging uses pumps and flexible piping to remove sediment while the pond remains full.

This method is especially useful in:

• Areas with sensitive ecosystems or residential surroundings
• Ponds that still function but have impaired capacity
• Locations where targeted removal is more practical than a full-scale excavation

Savin Lake Services uses environmentally sensitive hydraulic dredging techniques to remove accumulated materials efficiently, often with minimal disruption to surrounding areas. Sediment can be pumped into dewatering bags or basins, where it dries before being reused or removed. This approach helps extend a pond’s lifespan and can delay the need for more intensive restoration work.

Long-Term Maintenance Planning

Stormwater pond management is most effective when approached proactively. Rather than waiting for visible problems like algae blooms, fish kills, or flooding, communities benefit from scheduled monitoring and data-informed decision making.

A comprehensive plan includes:

• Seasonal inspections
• Water quality testing
• Vegetation and invasive species control
• Sediment monitoring
• Aeration system checks
• Educational outreach to residents about best practices

Conclusion

Maintaining stormwater ponds is not only an environmental responsibility—it’s a crucial part of protecting property, public infrastructure, and local ecosystems. In Michigan’s diverse climate, thoughtful stewardship ensures these systems continue to perform their intended role while supporting the overall health and appeal of residential communities.

By understanding the underlying causes of common pond issues—and knowing when to take action—community managers and HOA boards can make informed decisions that benefit both residents and the environment for years to come.

About Savin Lake Services, A Jones Lake Management Partner

Savin Lake Services is a leading provider of lake and pond management services, delivering expert solutions in aquatic plant management, aeration, hydraulic dredging, mechanical harvesting, water quality monitoring, fisheries management, and shoreline stabilization. As a Jones Lake Management Partner, our team is dedicated to protecting and enhancing waterbodies for HOAs, municipalities, golf courses, and private lake owners. With a focus on sustainability and science-based strategies, Savin Lake Services ensures that lakes and ponds remain healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing year-round.