Guys, I'm still in the beginning phases of a lake resurrection from 40 years ago. If I know that the lake held water for 20 years, is there a need to do soil tests / test holes? Also- is there a need to remove layers of top soil that have accumulated over the last 40 years?

Seems like as long as I invest my research, time, and quality into a leak free dam, that the (2) creek fed lakebed would sort itself out, even if the bottom was porous in some areas?

Resurrect in what way

How big is the pond?

Bill, the lake was 5.5acres, stood for 20 years, and has been dry for 40.

The lakebed has trees that have grown, and removing the smallest will not be a problem, but I'd like to find out if its considered 'best practice' to remove the layers of dirt that have accumulated over the last 4 decades, or just build a dam, and let it start flooding?