"The world is full of honest earthmovers, making a fair living. As expert as they are, it's incumbent on the landowner to guide the contractor, not vice-versa."
Exactly why I had to dismiss my first contractor! My wife and I would meet and discuss our "projected plan" and 3-4 days later we would see HIS VERSION and hear his excuses. That was a great post and having experienced what you conveyed I must agree it is of the upmost importance. I have had 2 earthmovers come and bid jobs, get the sight really torn up, only to "bump" the price. They didn't know each other and lived 400 miles apart. It seems they get a price locked in and either want more $ or start cutting corners! I now have a reliable honest earthmover and am totally satisfied with his work and price. With both contractors, my wife and I presented our goals and contractor #1 just did his own thing. Actually, at one point, found myself wondering who owned this ranch...
Again great post Bob.
Eastland, I am proud of my design where I can add 2-3a to it at a later date. I did hire and consult with two designer\engineers and our NCRS agent spent a day with me, and only after 100+ hours of research, mostly on this sight, did I proceed.
Brettski, I am dealing with almost 200a drainage. I will say this, when it finally fills and you see it for the first time, it is an awesome experience!
My advice is when your desires aren't met, DON'T hesitate to change contractors. Best of luck to you... already maping out my next pond for the spring.
I am thankful for Pond Boss for presenting the opportunity to share experiences and learn.
