I provided consulting design and oversite for a property near Pawling, NY where we excavated in around the oaks and other hardwoods to create some really great ponds. It was exciting to see the waterfowl use and also the numerous frogs and other aqutic life.

Watch the roots...but you may find that as long as you are not exposing them to air, they might do just fine. I have seen roots exposed along river banks or gravel pits where the oak tree is stressed on the one exposed side but continues living...not recommended but just an observation.

If you can move in and around the trees I think you will like the results.

One other thing, we installed small berms and an elevation control in the ponds near Pawling just to hold back a little more water and to have draw down control. Simulated draw downs, like droughts, can be very healthy for the more beneficial plants and invertebrates...not completely dry but lowering and then allowing nature to recharge the pond.

Keep us posted and post photos of your project. There are alot of interested people out there that would do just as you are.

Land DR