Pond Build Day 4: Dozer Down, Excavator to the Rescue

Dozer Issues and Plan B

• ⚠️ The dozer experienced mechanical issues again on day four of the pond build, requiring a mechanic and plans to transport it for repair.
• 💡 With the dozer down, the team switched to Plan B, utilizing the excavator to spread and compact dirt.
• 🛠️ The excavator was used in a bulldozer-like capacity to keep the project moving despite the equipment setback.

Excavator as a Dozer

• 🚧 The excavator was used to rake out dirt hauled by the dump truck, which was then rolled in.
• 📈 This method, while slower, was effective in keeping the project progressing and building up the pond dam.
• 💪 The team emphasized adapting to the situation and making the best of the available equipment.

Progress on the Pond Dam

• 💧 Multiple lifts of clay and dirt were added to the dam, bringing it close to the intended water level.
• 🏗️ The team worked to curb the dam into the hillside to prevent water from going around the sides, similar to previous techniques.
• 🌊 Dirt from inside the pond was used to build up the back edge, creating a slope and ensuring it could handle potential weekend water accumulation.

Dealing with Mud and Water

• 🚚 When the ground became too muddy, dirt was dumped into the pit instead of on the dam to avoid creating a mess.
• 💧 Efforts were made to drain water from certain areas to allow for excavation without getting flooded.
• ⚠️ The team encountered a situation where the ground might not hold the truck's weight, leading to cautious loading.

Finalizing the Dam and Future Plans

• ✅ The dam was brought to grade, with plans for an additional two feet of dirt for freeboard.
• 📍 The location for the pond's overflow was considered.
• 🔄 The plan for the following week includes swapping dozers, repairing the current one, and bringing in another to finish grading and add topsoil.
• 📉 Acknowledged disappointment when the filled pit area seemed smaller than expected, but noted that the old pit bank caved in, providing more material for future filling.

Unexpected Sounds and Sights

• 💥 The team heard what sounded like gunshots, later identified as coming from an army base nearby where parachuting exercises were taking place.
• 💨 The smell of gunpowder was noticeable due to the nearby military activity.