Extending a Pond Dam: Excavator Work and Core Trench Construction

Pond Dam Grade and Initial Excavation

• 🎯 Laser setup is used to check and confirm the top of the pond dam is at the correct grade, with minor adjustments needed.
• 💡 The plan is to cut down the excess material and extend the dam section towards a nearby ditch.
• ⚠️ A green film appearing overnight on the water is noted but its cause is unknown.

Addressing Wet Areas and Coffer Dam Construction

• 🚧 An attempt is made to fill a lower, wet section of the dam to build a coffer dam and enable excavation.
• 💧 The presence of significant water flow is observed, attributed to heavy rainfall (3.5 inches) the previous week.
• 🛠️ Dry dirt is used to push wetter material out and begin digging, with the goal of creating a drier working area.

Core Trenching and Clay Placement

• 🏗️ The strategy involves building a coffer dam, digging out the wet area, and then placing clay to create a core trench.
• 🧱 The aim is to establish a solid base and then dig a drainage ditch once the area is above water level.
• ⚠️ Leaks in the temporary coffer dam are addressed by smearing mud and grass to seal them.
• 🚜 A compactor is brought in to help pack the clay in the core trench, with the goal of getting it 2-3 feet above water level.

Progress and Material Handling

• 📈 Red clay is identified as good material for sealing the dam, while sandier yellow material is reserved for less critical areas.
• 🚚 Dirt is moved using trucks, with loads tracked to estimate yardage moved.
• 🚧 The process involves digging out mud, filling with clay, packing it, and then cutting a new trench to allow drainage.
• 🚜 A Kubota bulldozer is used for shaping and blending the back slope of the dam.

Finalizing the Dam Section

• ✅ The dam is brought to grade, with the backside built up and the front side trimmed for a smooth slope suitable for farm equipment.
• 💧 The importance of a well-maintained dam for farm maintenance is highlighted.
• 🚚 A total of 72 loads of dirt are moved on the final day, with progress made on grading and stockpiling material for the next day's work.