Just had a small pond dug out. They hit the clay about 9 feet down and spread it around. Its only about 2 weeks since it was made. I been filling with well water since, but not continuously. Some cold days made me caution and shut the pump off. Noticed the water level drop a few inches the first day and then a foot or so the next. So playing the fill game right now. Unsure if thats just the way it is with a new pond trying to settle out and pack down, or if there is already a problem with a leak. I know the muddy look is from the clay. Read a lot, heard a lot about using gypsum in the pond to clarify it. Even heard it could help seal it? But then i heard for sealing you use Betonite instead. So I thought the best thing to do, was seek out a forum and talk with folks that know what they are doing and quit believing everything I read on google.
At this point, 2 weeks in should i use gypsum? i have some dry wall laying around, but if i did use gypsum believe a powdered form would be better vs the paper covered drywall? Can it seal as well? Or is Betonite a good answer for that? And should I hold off... as its only been 2 weeks. I haven't been able to fill it full yet... partially because of weather and my fear of burning out the well pump. So its only been 3/4 full so far. Or at least close to cresting as you see in the pick. If i should use either gypsum or betting... know where i could find it in the San Antonio TX area? Seems hard to find online. Seems to be plenty in Pennsylvania. Should i aerate? I put the stake in the middle and i thought if i ran it an hour or 2 a day that may be sufficient. That is if i ever get the pond completely full. I'm open to thoughts and i want all your opinions. New at this, and really at a loss of where to start. Thanks All! As you can see, really don't know what to ask first regards. John
