Matt,
I will freely admit that I made a conscious decision to not get NRCS involved when I started this project. This decision actually flies in the face of my better judgement, particulary since I was SOOOO impressed with the service that I received from numerous other offices during my property search. If it had not been for my contractor's background and history as the NRCS CD agent in this same county, his strong reputation as a pond contractor, his obvious knowledge and communication skills...and...the lousy feeling I got during the 4 or 5 times that I did communicate with the local NRCS CD agent, I would have brought the NRCS office on board right from the beginning. I didn't....but that doesn't mean that I still won't. I knew this was going to be a 2 phase thing, and that any damage I created during phase one was going to be put on hold anyway, giving me a chance to "adjust". It also gives me a chance to adjust contractors, should there be a need. Ultimately, I am thrilled with the results so far. The cost was the only thing that kinda hit be on the back of the head...maybe I'm too cheap? I had referrals so I knew going into it that this guy was not going to be the cheapest, but nobody beats the service and the quality. This is exactly what occurred; I paid a little more and have zero regrets. Heck, for all I know, his rates are right on the money as an average...? Mr Lusk's points are well taken, valid, and are indeed on my list....your's too. The word is that there is a brand new CD agent in the NRCS office. I plan to reach out and re-attempt dialogue. My first and foremost reason for the pond is a beautiful, tranquil water feature. The opportunity to create a fish habitat is a nice bonus, though it was not the original goal. I do know one thing...now is the time to do it right. I have about 8 or 9 months to work out the kinks.
