Pro Fill Dirt Calculator
Accurate estimates for Yards, Tons, & Compaction
Results
How to Calculate Pond Volume
The Formula
Use our Circle tool. For sloped sides, reduce volume by ~15% manually or calculate as a series of cylinders.
Measure Accurately
Measure in feet. For depth, measure in inches and our tool handles the conversion (divide by 12).
Check Your Shape
Most pond volume projects are circles. If irregular, break it into smaller shapes.
Add Compaction
Pond excavation involves massive yardage. Errors are costly. Knowing the volume also helps you size your pump and filter.
Excavating vs. Filling
This calculator serves two purposes:
1. The Excavator
"I need to know how many dump trucks required to haul away the dirt I dig out."
Rule: Multiply result by 1.3 (Swell Factor).
2. The Filler
"I have an old pond I want to fill in with dirt."
Rule: Multiply result by 1.2 (Compaction Factor).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate gallons?
1 Cubic Foot = 7.48 Gallons. Our calculator primarily gives you Earth Volume (Yards), but you can multiply Cubic Feet by 7.48 to get water volume.
What to do with excavated dirt?
Use it to build a waterfall berm or level other parts of the yard. Remember 'swell factor'—dirt expands 30% when dug up.
How deep for fish?
Koi need at least 24 inches to prevent freezing in winter or overheating in summer. Ideally 36 inches.
How much liner do I need?
Length + (2 x Depth) + (2ft overlap) = Liner Length. Width + (2 x Depth) + (2ft overlap) = Liner Width.
Can I use the dirt for a dam?
Only if it has high clay content. Sandy soil will leak. You may need to import clay 'core' material.
