Retention & Detention Pond Design and Installation

Stormwater Volume Control Solutions for Commercial & Municipal Sites

Managing stormwater isn’t just about moving water—it’s about storing, controlling, and releasing it safely. Retention and detention ponds are engineered systems designed to capture runoff, reduce peak flows, and meet stormwater volume and quality requirements. At Diversified Drainage, we design and install code-compliant retention and detention ponds that help commercial and municipal properties control runoff, prevent flooding, and stay in compliance with local and state stormwater regulations.
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/OUR PROCESS

About the Service: Retention vs. Detention Explained

Retention and detention ponds may look similar, but they serve distinct purposes in a complete stormwater management plan.

Retention Ponds (Wet Ponds)

  • Designed to hold water permanently
  • Provide water quality treatment by allowing sediments and pollutants to settle
  • Used to mimic natural water bodies
  • Often landscaped for aesthetics or habitat benefit

Detention Ponds (Dry Ponds)

  • Temporarily hold stormwater and release it slowly
  • Typically dry between storm events
  • Control peak discharge rates to prevent downstream flooding
  • Often required for stormwater code compliance on large paved sites

Our Services Include:

  • Pond Sizing & Layout Design
    We calculate storage volume, inflow/outflow rates, and drainage area to meet both performance needs and code requirements.
  • Excavation & Grading
    Precision excavation and shaping to ensure proper pond function, safety, and stability.
  • Inlet/Outlet Structures & Control Valves
    Installation of engineered structures to manage inflow, outflow, and controlled release rates.
  • Overflow & Emergency Spillways
    Designing safe overflow systems to handle large storm events and protect surrounding infrastructure.
  • Liner & Erosion Control Systems
    Install liners, riprap, and vegetative buffers to prevent seepage and shoreline erosion.
  • Ongoing Maintenance & Repair
    We inspect, repair, and restore underperforming or overgrown pond systems.
Commercial Drainage Benefits

Why Retention & Detention Ponds Matter

Prevent On-Site & Downstream Flooding - Capture and control stormwater volumes during heavy rain and snowmelt events.
Stay Stormwater Code Compliant - Meet state and municipal stormwater requirements for commercial development projects.
Reduce Erosion & Infrastructure Damage - Slow runoff to reduce pressure on pipes, culverts, and downstream areas.
Improve Water Quality - Retention systems remove sediments and pollutants before water reenters the environment.
Support Sustainable Site Design - Incorporate ponds into LEED, LID, or BMP strategies for eco-conscious development.
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Built for Minnesota's Water Challenges

We design retention and detention systems that perform in:
Heavy clay soils
Freeze/thaw cycles
Large paved areas with fast runoff
Flat sites with poor drainage
Watershed-sensitive zones

Who We Serve

We install and maintain stormwater pond systems for:
Commercial developers
Industrial sites & warehouses
Municipalities & public works
Multi-family housing developments
Schools, campuses, and public institutions
Large retail & mixed-use properties

Why Choose Diversified Drainage? 

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25+ Years of Experience

With over two decades of hands-on experience, we’ve seen—and solved—every kind of drainage issue for both homes and commercial properties.

Fully Licensed & Insured

Our team is fully licensed, insured, and qualified to work on residential neighborhoods, large-scale commercial sites, and everything in between.

Local Expertise

As a Plymouth-based company, we understand the soil, slope, and drainage challenges unique to Minnesota properties.

Effective Solution Design

We provide high-quality drainage systems that are both cost-effective and built to perform season after season.

Customer-first Service

From homeowners to property managers, we prioritize clear communication, honest recommendations, and long-term results.

Ready to Take Control of Stormwater?

Whether you need a new pond designed from scratch or need help restoring an existing system, Diversified Drainage has the tools and expertise to do it right—and ensure compliance.
(763) 443-0575
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Commercial Drainage FAQs

Proper stormwater management starts with the right system—and a clear understanding of how it works. Explore these FAQs to learn more about commercial drainage.

What’s the difference between a retention and detention pond?

Retention ponds hold water year-round. Detention ponds temporarily hold runoff during storm events and then drain slowly.

Are retention or detention ponds required for commercial sites?

In many cases, yes—especially for large paved areas. Municipal codes often require volume control through pond systems.

Can ponds be designed to improve aesthetics or create habitat?

Yes. Retention ponds can be landscaped or enhanced with native plantings to support both form and function.

Do stormwater ponds need maintenance?

Absolutely. Sediment buildup, inlet/outlet clogs, and erosion are common issues that must be monitored and managed.