Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Lining pond sides only?

Greetings all! My pond design is still "in research" and evolving due to several very expensive conditions: 1) must dig all the way to 10' to hit the clay bed 2) cost of moving betonite to the site is over $8000. Is it possible to line just the pond sides and intersect with the clay bed in some manner? I cannot find this question elsewhere on the PB site or any of the books, so hope it is not an option too "far out there"... but had to ask if it is ever done.

ylazy,
Don't know about lining only the sides but I would think it could be done if the bottom edge had clay compacted over it.
But if you have enough clay why not just line the sides with clay?
Ric
BTW .. from reading your earlier posts I have to say, I would opt for the 20 ac. lake if it were me!

Here's the hard part...just lining the sides with bentonite would be good, theoretically. But, if you miss a spot, there will be a leak.
If willing to dig to clay, go another few feet and use the clay. It won't cost nearly as much to use what you have as it does to bring in the bentonite, all things being equal. If you have to move quantities of sand to get to clay...well you gotta move it, anyway.

Without a doubt I would opt for the clay lining. There are some awesome machines out there for stripping dirt. If you have somewhat level terrain, consider your options. My builder had machinery that would strip with a 14 yard bucket for $75 per hour.

Clay is a must we have seen many ponds with a partial lining of bentonite on the banks fail bring the clay up and entrain at least 24" into existing banks and should work fine for you.
Many times ground water will work it's way in from top grade or incline water pressure and damage seal and erode
Good luck
Scott

Have just begun working with a product called Bentomat. It is a bentonite impregnated blanket that has applications for just sealing certain areas of the pond. Having a rep come talk to us after thanksgiving. Benefits would be knowing how thick the mat is instead of trying to spread by hand.
Robert B