Abstract: A method of managing ponds that have standpipe overflows, such method including installing of a capped sleeve over the standpipe with the horizontal area between the wall of the sleeve and the wall of the standpipe being equal to or greater than the horizontal cross-section area of the standpipe. Opening a valve in the top of the standpipe to allow normal flow of the water from the pond through the standpipe by equalizing atmospheric pressure on the interior and exterior of the capped sleeve. Closing the valve in the cap of the sleeve to allow the water flow to create a vacuum in the top of the capped sleeve thus increasing water flow through the standpipe to full capacity. The draw down can continue until the interior vacuum is broken by the water reaching the bottom of the sleeve or the valve can be opened prior thereto to stop the draw down at any desired level.