Thanks, ga pond rookie. I hope I end up having useful info to share.
I met last week with a local pond contractor who was highly recommended. I was very impressed with him and he should give me an estimate in the next few days. He has built over 50 ponds in the area - everyone I've asked said he was great and would give me the best price for quality work. His overview of how he built dams seemed to cover all the points I've read about and he seems to like what he does.
Assuming I work with him I'm going to ask his advice about the road/driveway since he'll need to bring in heavy equipment. I'll try to post any useful info.
