We've recently had a 1.5 acre pond dug. We received 3 inches of rain the day after digging was done. Unfortunately, we weren't able to properly compact the clay because the pond began to fill and our build insisted there was no way the pond would leak. He said if it leaks he would come back and re line the bottom. Therefore, I figured we'd test the pond and see how it holds. It's about an average depth of a foot across a surface area of an acre. Maximum depth of about 3 feet around the dam.

My question is, if we loose about an inch of water over a 3 day span is that normal? I understand all ponds leak to some extent and we will have some evaporation. Could this be mostly the soil becoming "water logged" and the leak will slow. Or is that leak not so bad? Or will this leak become excessive as the pond fills and pressure builds? Also, the pond is located in the east texas heat.

Just looking for some expierence/advice before we take the next step in our dreams. Thanks for the time and consideration!

-cav