Drainage / Ponds

The town's responsibility is to keep water moving to mitigate the potential for flooding. Blockages due to trees down in creeks and streams is the most common issue, especially after wind events.  

Erosion is a natural occurrence. The town does not correct erosion issues unless it is compromising a road or utilities.  

Pond Management Policy: Policy outlines the steps for management and maintenance of the 126 ponds under the Town of Webster's jurisdiction

Maintenance Principles

  • The Town's responsibility is to ensure that the storage capacity and outflow of each pond function as designed.
  • Maintenance is focused on the functionality of the pond. Options are available should homeowners wish to pursue the aesthetics aspect of the pond.
  • Priority for maintenance is on flood control.

Algae Blooms and Duckweed

  • These are a natural occurrence within ponds. The Town of Webster will monitor conditions and allow nature to run its course.
  • Presence of these species occurs when there is an abundance of nitrogen, phosphate, and nutrient loading, typically from the use of fertilizers and the like from contributing neighborhoods. Excessive heat waves can exacerbate the conditions.

Wildlife

  • The Town will monitor wildlife conditions but will allow nature to run its course without interference.
  • Fish are not typically stocked in ponds and they can end up in a pond inadvertently by waterfowl moving them from waterbody to waterbody. There are only a few ponds in Town that are actually stocked, which requires a DEC permit.
  • Deceased wildlife will not be removed from a pond unless it is blocking pipes or is large in size, such as a deer.

Invasive Species

  • Unless obstructing or impeding the functionality of the pond, any invasive species will be allowed to remain as is.
  • If a species compromises or obstructs storage capacity of the pond, the Town will maintain it.

Outfall/Spillway

  • The Town is responsible for management and maintenance of a pond's structure and static elevation.

Silt Load

  • If the static elevation of a pond is affected or if storage capacity is compromised, the Town will address the situation.

Erosion and Rills

  • If erosion compromises storage capacity of the pond or makes the banks unstable, the Town will address the situation.
  • Placing anything around the perimeter or bank of pond can impede our ability to maintain the water management area and it will be removed.

Resources

Townwide Drainage District