Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations professional pond builder vs excavator?

I am considering building a pond and could have an excavator dig the pond or a professional pond builder build it. Any thoughts?
The pond would be roughly 80 x 40. The pond pro would probably be $20,000-30,000 at least. The pond would be lined. Most likely would have a pump and filter to circulate water. Almost like an aquascapes pond. All thoughts would be appreciated.

Jolson, if your a hands on person and cheap like me there is only one answer. Do it yourself! If not, break out the check book. I built my pond and feel luck to have had that chance. I was able to make it just like i wanted w/o having to get someone else to see my vision. I didnt have to worry about someone else griping about how much work it was gonna be for them to do it my way instead of theirs. "The pond would be lined." Was not sure if this ment there was no clay? Is their clay for use as a liner or will u be using a manufactured liner? If their is clay then i would want to have a dozer or sheeps foot roller to compact the clay. An excavator digs great but cant pack clay. Study up on everything you can and ask questions b4 u start. I was trolling her for a long time studying b4 i started asking questions, and i still read the old posts to snsure i get the data i want. I especially like to read the posts where someone screwed up something, good chance to learn from their mistakes. Its cheaper that way for you.

I used an experienced pond builder. An excavator can move dirt, but someone needs to oversee the process of being sure it will hold water. Either way, clear written communication is the way to get what you want. No surprises for you or the digger.

I agree with RAH, either get an experienced builder thats willing to listen and know when to tell you...nope, cat do that! Or study, listen, and glean everything you can then use it. Nothing ventured nothing gained, how do you think otto became the expert he now is? I'm sure he did his best to watch the guy in front of him, copied as much as he could along with what ever other kind of schooling he had. Surprizes are like lumps on the head, i have a few and would not be where i am today if i had not learned from them.