By the way...if someone could answer this question for me...

IF I were well-feed the pond, would it give me more control over not only consistent water levels in the pond, but pond design (i.e., I could dig a bowl and not worry about encroaching upon neighboring properties)?

The thing is, I think I'll need to end up digging a well on this property, regardless. My wife likes "green acres", and I would likely run irrigation along a significant portion of the property. Otherwise, I would have insane water bills every month (like I do now). This property would have lots of grass to water, a swimming pool, and a decent size pond...just makes financial sense to dig a well, I think.