Well, it has been a while since I posted, but believe it or not I come on here and read quite a bit. I appreciate the input I received from many of you for pond #1, and it has been holding steady at nearly full pool for almost a year now (there was the initial wicking effect).

In the intervening time, I went ahead and completed the second pond (across the driveway), which just recently filled as a result of a deluge of nearly biblical proportions. Finally, I had some time and just completed the third pond.

I have been keeping pictures and a narrative record of them all from start finish at Pics of Pond Construction

I am sure you love pictures of pond construction, because I know I certainly do!

DCox

D that looks great, How long did it take you from start to finish with that little JD?

If I accurately recall the hour meter, I'd say about 25-30 hours--but that would include stripping the grass sod to place on the dam of pond #2. I know it is odd building a pond with a tractor, and that is why I rented a dozer for a week with the larger pond #1. Tractors sure do make for great compaction of the clay core though, and the box blade with the teeth down sure can move a lot of dirt--I mean relative to the size of the equipment. It definitely is a step up from the horse-drawn blade my grandfather used.

Looks like a neat place. Congratulations.

I really enjoyed your pics and narration. A very nice place indeed and something that future generations will nurture and enjoy. What I especially appreciate is the impact that the pond and surrounding habitat/nature will have on your (and others) children. I think too often our society gets all caught up with providing children with instant gratification and distraction through artificial means, like the newest Playstation, Nintendo, etc. The simple pleasures a pond provides keeps young minds working, connecting with nature, even if it's only catching bugs, frogs and minnows. From raising my own two boys, it never ceases to amaze me the questions and discussions we've had down at the pond. I would like to think that ponds and nature in general are good for the soul, and help impart values and morals in our young and are a better influence than other more popular past times. Our children that spend time in nature with their parents and are raised in that environment don't mug little old ladies and sell crack on the corner.
Good for you.

Outstanding!!!