My biggest recommendation would be to do what you're obviously already doing - read a ton on this site, ask lots of questions and don't be afraid to seek out the experts. I found this site the year AFTER I built my pond, and have spent the last several years living in 'regretsville' because of a variety of mistakes I didn't know were mistakes at the time.

What part of Central IL are you in? I'm in West central - Macoupin CO. Be glad to meet with you and talk ponds, and specifically how I screwed mine up over the years (what not to do).

Dale

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"When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the Fire Department usually uses water." - anonymous