This report reviews methods and criteria for placer mining settling pond design. The mining and processing of placer gold generates wastewaters containing high concentrations of fine sand, silt and clay. Reduction of sediment discharges is required primarily to minimize impacts of sediment and turbidity on the aquatic environment and fish. Sediment discharge control to avoid sedimentation of water supply intakes of downstream mining operations and to allow recycling of process water in water short areas are secondary factors.