I have a very old lake with a very large, tall dam. The back is much steeper than would be built today. Also, there are many large trees that were allowed to grow all over the dam including the back. Also, there have been beaver on the lake (they are now being "controlled"). Amazingly, the lake holds water well, but there is a slight leak suspected. I don't want see the leak get worse with time, so I'm wondering what can be done proactively without draining the lake ( 18 ac ) and rebuilding the dam. I'm wondering if the leak can be identified before it gets bigger by using dyes, and if treatment with hydrating polymer is appropriate.
