Stormwater ponds are designed to treat stormwater runoff and improve water quality. The stormwater ponds detain stormwater runoff for an extended period of time, allowing for the suspended pollutants to settle down to the bottom of the pond and prevent them from entering our streams and rivers. Stormwater ponds also help prevent flooding by providing temporary storage of runoff and hold the water for a short period of time. Within the City of Owatonna, 20 public stormwater ponds and 40 private stormwater ponds exist.