Agree to not use the guy. That would be like using a lube guy to do a transmission.
I agree with gallop to check with the NRCS and get their list. However, anybody including this guy have their name added to the list. Use the list as a starting point. Ask for references of ponds that they have built. Then check the references. Check a lot of references in your area. Ask the other guy what he would have done differently.
The cost is determined by the job site and how much work has to be done. Filling a gully should be cheaper than digging a hole from scratch. An experienced pond builder can do the job quicker. He will know soils in the area and will check yours for clay/loam %, plasticity, packing with a sheepsfoot roller instead of the dozer, keyways, runoff areas/amounts, etc.
This is an expensive game. Dozers and diesel aren't cheap and they have to be maintained. They break down a lot. I've never run a dozer but figure I could. However, it would take me many times that of an experienced guy. And, an inexperienced pond builder who knows how to dig dirt and cut grade has to learn at your expense what the experienced guy already knows and has screwed up a couple of times.
The bottom line is that you are building a home for fish instead of a cattle watering hole. BTW, dang near all ponds leak to some extent.
Last edited by Dave Davidson1; 04/09/14 06:26 AM.
