FINALLY managed to a get a couple guys in to give me some quotes. I've been thinking of just going the route of dropping in an aeration system, bacteria and dye but am considering a mechanical fix that will get it done quicker.

This year, getting it done may allow me to claim it on my taxes as I am still a working farm. Next year it may not as I will likely have my cattle gone.

I about fell off my chair when I got the first quote today from a guy who specializes in cleaning out and digging ponds. Seemed like a very straight up guy. Said he expected my 1/2 acre pond to be a $20-30k job rather than a $10k job!

Said he could do something for $10k but would not at it won't get the job done right. He would be using a drag line after draining it out and will rebuild all the sides to the appropriate grade in addition with getting the muck out.

I have two other guys going to quote me. One is a new fangled vaccuum type 'eco friendly' system which does not require pond drainage. Said they will 'rake' out the weeds and then suck out the muck with their big pump and deposit it in the woods and then filter the pond water.

Third guy is the guy who dug this pond out. Knows the area really well. Impossible to get a hold of but stellar reputation once he comes and gets to the job. Never over charges; so I hear. He's a traditional guy with a dozer and a track hoe.

Any suggestions on one vs other method and the size of the quote (wow - still in shock!)?

Really appreciate any advice.