Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations best time of year to build pond?

I plan on building a pond in the next year and was wondering what is the best time of year to build? I have a ton of questions I want to ask, like I plan on building my pond next to some woods and was wondering what to do about leaves in the fall I don't want it get full of leaves and look like a mud hole. I plan on buying the book perfect pond,want one and was wondering if this book would answer alot of my questions?

Bobby:

Usually in the Fall is when the most ponds are built around here, but that's only if you can fit in the contractors schedule. Less surface water = less water to deal with = less $ spent.

The book is a good source of information, after you read it I'm sure you will have questions.

My take on leaves is that yes, they contribute to the bottom goo, they are a part of nature and you can't get them all. A year down the road for the pond is a good time frame, it will give you time to build cover to put in your pond once it's completed, but before it's full of water. You can also shop for erosion control products (if needed) and look for sales. It's not only about digging a hole in the ground, it's also about the things that will be in the pond, and the ground around the pond (how it will be used).

You are a big step ahead of me when I renovated my pond - I didn't find this place until after it was finished.

Moisture content of the soil plays a big part of it. For example, in my area Fall, just coming out of our dry summer, is a terrible time.

Don't do it when the ground is frozen. Built my house when the ground was frozen it was like giant slabs of concrete laying everywhere..

Also do it right the first time. And take your time and study everything you can. This is the most important part of you owning a pond.

Ditto
Wich brings you back to is it ledge or bed rock?
How have you desided to seal the water up (BOW)?
The clay? or liner?
Have you considerd concrete?

I think the type of pond you are building,will be a consideration to acount.
Some constructiones can be made 365 oters are more locked to season ($).

Are you gone do it youre self or hire some one?

Bobby,

I assume from your profile that you are in Indiana. I believe that your weather is much like ours, plus we have lots of active members in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. You should get lots of great advice.

The soil needs to be damp -- not wet, not too dry. Excavation can start shortly after the machines can get in. The topsoil should be pushed off and used on top of the dam and around the edges to help get grasses growing. But, shaping, creating the dam, and pond bottom compaction should take place when the soil compacts well -- not too dry, not too wet.

I would seek the assistance of your local NCRS (National Conservation Resource Service -- not the National Corvette Restoration Society) and your local university Extension Service office -- probably the aquaculture specialist. My experience with these extremely dedicated public servants, in multiple states, has always been incredibly helpful.

Regards,
Ken

Are you hiring out the excavation work, or is this DIY?

Here is a valuable book
http://www.scribd.com/doc/1497231/USDA-PONDS
Download or read on the net

This I'w found handy as well
http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/swdmglossary.pdf

thanks for the info

good info. thx

Ill hire somebody to do it?

Hands down, Fall.

Where in Indiana do you live Bobby?

Im from Madison, anybody know and good pond builders in the area?