One inch per week on a new pond isn't a big deal. The water wicks back into the drier banks and will for a long time. The rocks I see are more conducive to wicking in those areas.
Water coming out of the back of a dam is never desirable or normal.
It's not about the fish. It's about the pond. Take care of the pond and the fish will be fine. PB subscriber since before it was in color.
Without a sense of urgency, Nothing ever gets done.
Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley Rancher and Farmer Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP Grandpa