Consultations

Similar to mapping services, professional consultations provide a detailed assessment of the condition and functionality of a pond, dam, or proposed construction site. On-site evaluations by experienced professionals allow for accurate documentation of existing conditions, collection of critical data, and development of science-based management recommendations.

AES staff possess the expertise and field experience necessary to deliver reliable, actionable insights that help landowners make informed decisions about their water resources.

During a lake management consultation, AES biologists visit your pond or lake to collect field data and evaluate biological characteristics influencing overall lake health. Assessments include water quality, watershed sizing, aquatic vegetation identification and abundance, fisheries objectives, and habitat conditions critical to sustainable lake management.

AES biologists also conduct an in-depth discussion with the lake owner to understand short- and long-term management goals, use expectations, and overall vision for the waterbody. This goal-driven approach ensures that recommendations are both scientifically sound and practically applicable. Following the site visit, AES provides a comprehensive written consultation report that includes:

• A detailed evaluation of lake and watershed conditions, including aquatic vegetation identification, relative abundance, and science-based management or treatment recommendations
• Results and interpretation of on-site water quality testing, with discussion of how findings relate to fisheries health and overall lake function
• Assessment of fisheries management goals and existing habitat conditions, including factors influencing fish populations and long-term sustainability
• Evaluation of spillway and outlet conditions with a summary of observed concerns that may affect water level control or structural performance
• A clear, goal-based summary of prioritized lake management recommendations designed to support long-term performance, usability, and ecological balance

Dams, spillways, and outlet systems require routine inspection and maintenance to ensure long-term structural integrity and proper water control. Because these components are subject to constant stress, early identification of deficiencies is critical to preventing failure or costly repairs.

A dam and outlet consultation provides pond owners with detailed, objective information to guide maintenance and improvement decisions. The final report includes:

• Documentation of current dam and outlet conditions, including dimensional measurements, vegetation issues, seepage indicators, animal activity, and outlet system characteristics
• Assessment of erosion in high-flow areas such as emergency spillways, plunge pools, and the upstream face of the dam
• Evaluation of outlet system and spillway performance, including corrosion, blockages, or mechanical concerns
• Targeted recommendations to improve system health, which may include riprap placement, vegetation removal guidance, seepage mitigation strategies, and wildlife management recommendations

Pre-construction consultations—also referred to as feasibility studies—are conducted prior to pond or lake construction to evaluate the suitability of a proposed site. AES assesses the primary site and, when applicable, alternative locations to determine feasibility and optimize design potential. Additionally, fisheries habitat can be designed, and a map can be provided to the lake owner.

These assessments provide critical information related to water availability, soil conditions, watershed size, and dam feasibility, helping property owners avoid costly design errors and construction challenges. The final feasibility report includes:

• Watershed analysis to determine whether sufficient inflow exists to support a pond or lake that meets the owner’s objectives
• Evaluation of soil characteristics, including identification of potential test pit locations to assess suitability for pond construction or the need for imported material
• Analysis of site topography and dam feasibility to identify optimal dam locations that maximize water storage while aligning with budgetary and design goals