I'm getting estimates on pond excavation to add to my small scale fish farm. I've had one estimate with three or four more excavators coming out soon.

The first guy seems honest and very knowlegable, but was a little puzzled when I brought up the word "core trench" that I would like him to put in under a dike he will have to build up on one side. When I explained what it was, he said he usually does some scraping with a blade and that is sufficient with the high clay content I have I have my doubts as I have some seepage in one area the dike of my trout pond and that contracter admitted he did not even scrape off the sod! He won't be coming back.

Anyway, he wants $1000.00 per day to dig three ponds, one 80 by 40 by 9, another 40 by 40 by 7, and the last only about 25 by 30 by 5. (Small ponds work better for intensive aquaculture as they are quicker to drain and fill, seine etc.) He will have to move some earth around, but not very far. What can't be used on the premises my neighbor will allow me to take over and spread on his field.

What do you think? $1000.00 per day sound reasonable?

If pigs could fly bacon would be harder to come by and there would be a lot of damaged trees.