Yes I have a clear idea, but it isn't simple. Slice the pond in horizontal layers with each layer say 1" deep. Then lay a 1" grid over the top of each layer and count the number of squares that fall in the water. Guess at partial squares, less than 1/2 get tossed, more than half are counted as 1 (if you find any that are exactly 1/2 you are too anal for 1" squares and need to use smaller and smaller squares until you say Uncle).
After you do this for each layer you add total all the squares in water and that total is cubic inches which can be converted to gals with many online calculators.
As I alluded to, 1" square gives you a certain precision, 1/2" squares gives more precision. Smaller the square the higher the precision. So depends on how far you want to go. Something like a 1' square is more than good enough for most people and pretty easy.
I do it in software so it's simple to get very high precision.
Of course that often all goes out the window when the digging starts. Ponds on paper are often not the same in dirt.
After you do this for each layer you add total all the squares in water and that total is cubic inches which can be converted to gals with many online calculators.
As I alluded to, 1" square gives you a certain precision, 1/2" squares gives more precision. Smaller the square the higher the precision. So depends on how far you want to go. Something like a 1' square is more than good enough for most people and pretty easy.
I do it in software so it's simple to get very high precision.
Of course that often all goes out the window when the digging starts. Ponds on paper are often not the same in dirt.
