Whether you want a pond to water livestock or to add a beautiful water feature to your yard, it’s not a project you should take on yourself. There’s a lot of important considerations in pond construction that make it a job for an experienced professional. The excavating and trenching contractors at C. L. Richardson Construction Co. have shared some information to know before you create a pond in Ashland, MO.  

A Professional’s Guide to Pond Construction

What to Consider in Site Selection

You’ll first need to decide whether you want an embanked or excavated pond. Excavated ponds tend to last longer than embankment ponds, so they are a safer investment. Embankment requires damming a stream, and this dam can get washed out in a storm.

Next, you'll choose the site. A level area will make for simpler and more affordable construction. The soil should have the right consistency to hold water without seepage, and there should be an accessible and reliable water supply. It should be a safe distance from buildings, septic systems, wells, and property lines. An experienced contractor can help you make these assessments to mitigate damage to your property or others’.

How to Construct the Pond

Once you’ve made all considerations for the pond location, the construction itself will be equally complicated. The site must be clear of plant life and rocks. The topsoil needs to be removed and preferably preserved because it is a rare and fertile resource. Once excavated, you'll need to compact the pond and the core trench with clay soil to prevent seepage.

The state-licensed grading contractors at C. L. Richardson Construction have worked for over 65 years in pond construction throughout the Ashland and Mid-Missouri Area. They understand the proper techniques of designing and installing new ponds. Experienced with every contingency a homeowner must consider, they will get your project done right, from clearing the site to finishing your pond. Call (573) 657-9557 to get an estimate or visit their website for more information.