If you clear it up now the clay around the banks will wash in and muddy it right back up. You could thickly plant some annual rye and fescue seed mix, put down straw over it, and then try to clear it after a couple of months after the grass establishes. Anything to filter the clay from getting into the water will help a lot at this point. Bales of hay at the water's edge is another idea, along with planting the grass. Even laying sod, if you want to spend that much.
Just slow down big fella and listen to these folks. Plant grass around the edges and prevent your water shed area from muddying it back up! A pond is a journey, enjoy it with those beautiful kids. Hold off and let it settle out by itself while the grass comes in.
Fishntx85, I'll be in Texas applying alum to a couple ponds, but judging by your dimensions, I'd suggest 1000 pounds of Alum. Like has been said, adding Alum will clear the muddy water, but with all that bare clay, it will be just as bad again the next decent rain.
If you get near Houston, Kelly Duffie at Helena has Alum, or send me a PM and I can arrange for you to pick it up in SA at one of my suppliers.
Thanks for the welcome guys... Rainman how far south will you be in texas I'm about 45 mins south east of San Antonio. What month will you be in texas? probably 2 to 2 1/2 from Houston. I found a company in san antonio that will sell alum but only by the pallet believe it's $1000 and 48 fifty lb bags on a pallet I don't mind driving to houston either to pick up. Would I have to buy by the pallet or could I buy a 1000 lbs
I won't be ready for awhile but I would like to get that contact info from you. I'd like to buy the Alum soon as the funds get available.ill pm you or you can call or text me @ 210-784-9404 Andrew thanks Rainman and you do awesome work! I'm very impressed.