Bob, when you get bids be sure to check that they come from reputable pond builders, not just some dirt guy with a dozer. Ponds, particularly dams, are a specialized field and just because someone can push dirt doesn't mean things will go well. Get references & check them carefully. The money you save by going cheap may cost you a lot more when you have a leaky dam, or collapsed dam after a flood, or weeds choke half the too shallow pond.
| 
