The area where the track will eventually go:

Slope here was quite steep, so a retaining wall had to be built and dirt hauled in to level the area somewhat.

Leveling the area completely would have adversely affected drainage from the house, so some slope was left.

Pictured is the beginning of the pond installation also.

Beginning of the ground work:

The hole has been dug for the pond installation, the retaining wall is in place, and the backfill with dirt to level the area has begun. 

Pond Installation Complete

Before much more was accomplished, the pond was installed and up and running.  It was stocked initially with goldfish. 

Second track plan:

Track again was laid down in a temporary plan.  A passing siding was added to the freight line (shown on the right side of the photo).  A possible reversing loop was added also.  The inner portion of the track will have to be elevated to allow it to pass over the freight line and the pond.