Just found this site today and I have been reading it for hours. I am looking for a recomended pond builder near Potosi MO. 63664.. My neighbor has a friend that is an out of work dozer driver. I would love to give him the work but was wondering what you all think.
Welcome thedford! You have found the right place and happy to see you're enjoying what you're reading. Has this dirt guy ever dug any ponds before? If so, does he have any references?
He says he has built a few, but no references. He says around there you dont dig the pond you just dam up a ravine. The soil and water dept gave me some locations. They say I have the right soil and slopes for filling. The books I have read all say about putting in drains. I know he wouldnt be doing that. Is having a drain that important?
Better let someone else field that one. Sounds a bit too simple to me though.
Call Shawn Banks...Midwest Lake Management - hey might be able to help direct you.
Email: pondrx@midwestlake.com
Homepage:
http://www.midwestlake.com
I tried calling yesterday and today, so far no answer. I will email him. Thank you
Thedford, I am near you, in St Louis. There is indeed far more "to it" than damming up a ravine in this area and that may explain why there are no references. A good dozer operator could be closely supervised and shown what "needs" to be done. Your local NRCS agent probably has knowledge of who the best "pond builders" in the area are and even though the agents are not allowed to endorse or recommend anyone, they can often be asked whom THEY would use to build a pond for their own property.
Thedford - actually Shawn was with Condello and myself last night stoking a 20' high blaze by the lake enjoying diet pepsi until the wee hours of the morning. He's driving home now as we speak - might be able to catch him on his cell, otherwise drop him an email. His extensive knowledge and experience will help guide your pond management strategies down the road - and he's an awesome person, too. Definitely need to make the connection with him. Good luck.
You guys didn't have internet service out there, did ya?
Guys, thank you so much for all the advice. The NRCS agent gave me a list of contractors, but was wondering about recommendations. I will see what Shawn has to say.