Long time ago before the development of channels and reservoirs, farmers took advantage of small ponds or 'dumbongs' for water storage. Some of them are natural but some are man-made. Dumbongs are important water source but they are also the place where thousands of insects and amphibians, some often natural enemies of vicious pests, survive. They serve as refuge when the rice fields are polluted. 

There are many kinds of ponds. The "spring" type has water running throughout the year due to ample groundwater. There is minimum change in the amount of water. Most species with conservation value are found in these types of pond because they require constant supply of water. Some of these ponds do not freeze in the winter so they become feeding grounds for hibernating birds. The "exchanging" type contains emerged plants which cleanse the water and help improve the environmental conditions of the rice fields. Because it is dug out in the middle or the edge of the rice field to drain water, it has a similar ecology to that of the rice field. It derives its water from surface water. Water is exchanged between the rice field and the dumbong depending on which is overflowing with water. The "stagnant-spring" type has a low groundwater level, so it remains shallow for some time and is replenished by rainwater. Because of its stagnant nature, it could cause soil acidification and harm aquatic creatures. So, its organic content must be kept in check. The "stagnant" type is made to collect rainwater. Its water level changes significantly by season. 

Most of the dumbongs were destroyed in the process of developing complex irrigation systems and reorganizing the rice fields which is, in fact, ironic, because the dumbongs are excellent for storing and distributing water. Recently, the government has recognized its value and is trying to revive them. However, research on dumbongs is almost nonexistent. It is important that we study more about these ponds because they are so helpful to the farmers and to the nature.

People regard development and nature as opposites. In order to develop, we must destroy nature and to protect nature, we must slow our growth down. However, I think economic growth and environmental protection are not separate things. They are actually closely linked to each other. Dumbongs are the epitome of this linkage. They could connect human interest to environmental protection and lead us to a greater understanding of the coexistence.