Doug, it may sound strange for Texas pond owners to respond to your Canadian questions, but the site selection process may not be that much different. We are presently in the process of building a forage pond, downstream from our two acre, two-year-old pond. In fact the dozer is running as we speak.
Dave is right on with his comments about consulting with neighbors and dirt contractors, and especially observing conditions of your present stream.
Not knowing size and budget constraints for your pond, if any, the topo map is the place to start.”Walk out” your property, observing elevation changes and soil types across entire area. With 100 acres to work with, your options should be excellent to choose the right site, providing drainage area and soil conditions are adequate. I would strongly consider utilizing existing streams or “ditches” before even thinking about wells or windmills.
Our soil condition in our N.E.Texas area is ideal for ponds, but our major concern is century old oak trees that we will not put at risk by heavy equipment, or flooding. Our site was selected to drain into the main stream, even though we had to clear standing timber and underbrush.
Hope this helps,
George Glazener
