The primary difference between a reservoir and an irrigation pond lies in their purpose, scale, and functionality. A reservoir is typically a large artificial body of water designed for multiple purposes, which can include water supply for drinking, industrial processes, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and flood control, among others. Reservoirs are often substantial in size, covering large areas and holding massive amounts of water.
On the other hand, an irrigation pond is specifically designed to provide a localized and reliable water source for agricultural purposes, primarily for crop irrigation. These ponds are relatively smaller in scale compared to reservoirs and are strategically located on farms and rural properties. They are typically created by excavating depressions in the ground or by constructing small dams across seasonal streams or runoff channels. The primary focus of an irrigation pond is to store and supply water for farming, helping to ensure consistent crop growth, especially during dry periods.
