What is the purpose of a retention pond?

The purpose of a retention pond is primarily to store excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. When rainwater accumulates, a retention pond provides a designated area to hold this water temporarily, preventing flooding and allowing it to be released gradually. This helps to manage stormwater runoff and minimize the potential for erosion or damage to local infrastructure. By capturing and storing stormwater, retention ponds also improve water quality as they give pollutants time to settle before any water is released into nearby bodies of water.

While other options may have some relevance in specific contexts, the core function of a retention pond is indeed to manage excess water, making it crucial for effective stormwater management.