Ditto what Bill said. Typically ground compaction won't happen much more than 8" or so, so you can't compact the whole depth/breadth of the existing dam by running a sheepsfootover it.

If a re-do is going to happen, I also agree with Bill, get at least one quote before putting your money down on the place.

You might be able to source the dirt/clay you need to make the dam wider from the pond bottom itself once the muck is removed. The less feet you have to move the dirt the less it will cost.

If the decision is to redo the pond, a few test holes can be dug in the pond bottom after the dam is breached to see what type of dirt is there.

Basically have a contingency plan or two in place to make sure you will have enough of the proper dirt to re-do the dam.

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