A well-designed pond can be one of the most valuable features on your property. Whether you need water for livestock, want to create wildlife habitat, or simply appreciate the aesthetic value of a water feature, proper excavation is the foundation of success.
TexTerra Solutions provides professional pond excavation services for landowners and ranchers throughout Central Texas. As a veteran-owned company led by Charlie Lisk and Colton Cunningham, we specialize in digging ponds to your exact specifications, shaping them to hold water effectively, and sealing them to ensure long-term durability.
From small stock tanks to larger recreational ponds, we have the equipment and experience to handle projects of all sizes.
What We Do
Custom Pond Excavation
We excavate ponds to the size, depth, and shape you need for livestock, irrigation, or recreation. Each pond is designed to fit the unique topography of your property.
Stock Tank Construction
Digging reliable stock tanks for cattle, horses, and other livestock. These are designed to provide consistent water access for your animals year-round.
Recreational Pond Excavation
Larger ponds designed for fishing, swimming, or aesthetics. We include deeper sections to support healthy fish populations and prevent excessive aquatic vegetation.
Clay Sealing
Not all soil types hold water naturally. We seal ponds with clay to create a watertight barrier, preventing seepage and ensuring the pond maintains its level through the Texas heat.
Shaping & Grading
Proper grading around the basin is critical. We shape the surrounding land to direct runoff into the pond while implementing erosion control to protect the banks.
Spillway Construction
Spillways are essential for controlling overflow during heavy Central Texas rains. We construct safe, controlled drainage paths to prevent dam breaches or erosion when the pond reaches capacity.
Common Pond Projects
- Livestock Watering Ponds: Sized based on animal count and located strategically for pasture access.
- Wildlife Habitat Ponds: Designed with shallow areas for wading birds and deep zones for aquatic life.
- Fishing Ponds: Stocked ponds with adequate depth to maintain water quality and fish health through the summer.
- Irrigation Ponds: Designed to capture and store rainwater for agricultural or landscaping applications.
- Aesthetic Ponds: Visual features located near homes or gathering areas to add value and enjoyment to the property.
Our Pond Excavation Process
- Site Assessment & Planning: We evaluate potential locations and soil conditions. Site selection is key—the best ponds utilize natural water flow to fill and maintain levels.
- Design & Sizing: We recommend a specific size and depth based on your goals, incorporating features like spillways and access points.
- Excavation: We shape the basin and establish contours, working carefully to preserve the surrounding landscape.
- Clay Sealing (If Needed): If natural soil is too sandy or rocky, we apply a clay seal to create a waterproof barrier.
- Grading & Finishing: We finish the area by directing runoff into the basin and cleaning up the site so it is ready for the next rain.
Service Area
TexTerra Solutions serves property owners throughout Central Texas, including Bertram, Marble Falls, Lampasas, Temple, Georgetown, Leander, Liberty Hill, Johnson City, Dripping Springs, and surrounding areas. We regularly travel up to 90 minutes from our Bertram location.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to excavate a pond? Costs depend on size, depth, soil conditions, and the need for clay sealing. We provide a detailed estimate after a site visit to ensure a clear understanding of the investment.
Do all ponds need to be sealed with clay? Not all. Heavy clay soils hold water naturally, but sandy or rocky soils almost always require a seal to prevent the pond from leaking.
How deep should a pond be? Stock tanks are usually 8–12 feet deep. Fishing ponds often reach 12–20 feet in the center to keep water cool and support fish health during the summer.
Can you build a pond on sloped land? Yes. Sloped land is often ideal as it allows for natural water collection. We use the slope to build stable embankments on the downhill side.
Get a Free Estimate
Thinking about adding a pond to your property? Contact TexTerra Solutions today for a free estimate.