I have seen several man made lakes around here as a result of gravel mining etc. They often deal with banks just like in your pictures. Many of them take a little is best approach. They will have someone with a dozer come in and flatten or lower the angle of two or three spots that would meet the needs of access, family picnic areas, etc. The rest of the pond is left natural to allow the wildlife to use it and the fish to have shade along the shore. I know nothing of your regs so if you think about this option, do research the requirements of your local environmental arm of the government. Here, when working around water bigger than 1 acre I believe, permits are required. Yes, even on man made lakes on private land.
One thing to check out with the sheep and goats, I know little of anything about their upkeep but do check with your extension and find out the impact of their waste products on your pond. Manure of all kinds can lead to algae issues in bodies of water of all sizes. I am certain the number of animals has a huge impact on this issue. If only one or two are required, they produce a certain amount of waste that can be washed into the pond during rain or spring run off. If 10 or 12 are required, obviously the impact increases greatly. Those who raise the sheep and goats might be able to help you with how many animals it would take to practically keep it short. Of course, there is also the cost of fence around a 5 acre pond. Around here, we fight the waste products of ducks on the beaches. Ecoli problems making beaches unsafe for swimming per the powers that be. Take it for what it is. For the record, I am not condemning or condoning any of the options, just pointing out your need for research on each option.
All of that said, I am jealous of your problem. Would love to have it. Enjoy it with your family no matter what your decision.
One thing to check out with the sheep and goats, I know little of anything about their upkeep but do check with your extension and find out the impact of their waste products on your pond. Manure of all kinds can lead to algae issues in bodies of water of all sizes. I am certain the number of animals has a huge impact on this issue. If only one or two are required, they produce a certain amount of waste that can be washed into the pond during rain or spring run off. If 10 or 12 are required, obviously the impact increases greatly. Those who raise the sheep and goats might be able to help you with how many animals it would take to practically keep it short. Of course, there is also the cost of fence around a 5 acre pond. Around here, we fight the waste products of ducks on the beaches. Ecoli problems making beaches unsafe for swimming per the powers that be. Take it for what it is. For the record, I am not condemning or condoning any of the options, just pointing out your need for research on each option.
All of that said, I am jealous of your problem. Would love to have it. Enjoy it with your family no matter what your decision.
