Pond Boss Forums GENERAL QUESTIONS Property Projects & Construction Cost of Digging & Aeration?

Let me start by admitting I'm a newcomer and know relatively little about pond construction, so excuse any ignorance I may have when asking questions ;-)

I'm wanting to build a decent-size (1 or 2 acre) pond for mostly fishing (bass, channel cat, sunfish), and maybe some recreational swimming during the summer. From reading other forums and advice, I'm guessing my pond should be an average of 10 feet in depth (correct me if I'm wrong).

Question 1: How much are the average/typical digging costs for 1 acre @ 10 ft. depth? I know this answer will vary depending upon the contractor I choose, but can anyone here give me a rough estimate on typical costs? No tree's need to be cleared, btw, and our dirt is mostly clay.

Question 2: Since I plan on having fish, will aeration/diffusers be absolutely necessary? I swear I can remember as a kid catching some killer catfish in ponds that had little or no aeration, so how important is aeration?

Question 3: If aeration is necessary, I'd probably prefer bottom aeration (diffusers), but I'm confused on big of a diffuser I would need per acre or depth of water. 1hp diffuser per one acre @ 10ft depth, maybe? Any advice on this??

I've read estimates on forums from folks in California that claim upwards of 50,000...which is utterly ridiculous. Im in Alabama, and thinking a range of 5,000-15,000?

Thanks guys, hope someone can help me out here. Hope it isnt rude to ask 3 questions in one post...forgive the newbie here if its taboo!