Hey guys!
I'm new to the site and pond building. That being said, I've looked around the forum and have come to realize a test hole is essential for site placement. I am looking to build a half acre pond near a wetland, yet not in it. I took my backhoe and dug a 5ft. Deep hole in the middle of the proposed pond. The area is already low and typically hold water in times of rain. As you may notice it started making water pretty quickly. Can you experts advice me on the quality of the soil to hold water,and any issues with water table. By the way, the site is in the Florida panhandle.
Thx, in advance!

It looks like clay but I'm not familiar with your soils. Does it make a good ball?

Try a bucket test. Cut a couple of holes in a plastic bucket or something else. I like to do the sides near the bottom. Pack the soil well and add water. The soil will always absorb the water. Check to see if it leaks. Note: All soils leak to some extent.

You might want to use a second bucket without the holes for the sake of comparison.