We're all on your team, Anna. We all want the same bottom line conclusion: a hole that holds water, creating a pond that will last for generations.
By your description, I like Ronnie, too. The only part that made me shy was your descriptive statement:
 Quote:
Once the pond level was dropped, he would try to identify and fix any obvious leaks in the dam from the front side if possible(no promises).


You've just received the official disclaimer. I believe that he will deliver every penny's worth of your investment, hour for hour. If the pond leaks or won't hold water when he is done, what was it worth?
I know how you feel. I have been on this forum a number of years and had my best ideas challenged when I thought for sure I was on the right track. Moreover, emotionless text can come across as negative and/or agressive in nature. Don't read it wrong; it's truly meant to be positive. If it was outta line, the rest of us would letcha know.
That being said, Ewest is correct. Check his references. Have him provide similar fixes on other's ponds.
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One last thing....
Tell us more about this "dam on the property line". Is the entire dam on your property, or is a portion of it spilling over next door?