How to Drill a Well
Consider the costs and benefits of drilling a well against piping or shipping water in., Know the specific location of the property where the well is to be drilled., Find out what previous wells have been drilled on the property., Consult geologic...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Consider the costs and benefits of drilling a well against piping or shipping water in.
Drilling a well involves a higher initial cost than connecting to a public water supply, as well as risks of not finding enough water or water of sufficient quality and ongoing costs to pump the water and maintain the well.
However, some water districts may make residents wait years before they can be connected to a public supply, thus making well drilling a viable option where there is enough groundwater at a reasonable depth. -
Step 2: Know the specific location of the property where the well is to be drilled.
You'll need to know the section, township, range and quarters to access land and well records through your state's geological survey or from your State Watermaster. , Geological survey records or state well drilling reports will record the depths of previous wells in the area and whether or not they found water.
You can access these records in person, by telephone or online.
These records can help you determine the depth of the water table, as well as the location of any confined aquifers.
Most aquifers are at the depth of the water table; these are called unconfined aquifers, as all the material above them is porous.
Confined aquifers are covered by nonporous layers, which, although they push the static water level above the top of the aquifer, are more difficult to drill into. , Although less useful than well-drilling records, geologic maps can show the general location of aquifers, as well as the rock formations in an area.
Topographic maps show the surface features and their elevations and can be used to plot well locations.
Together, they can determine whether an area has sufficient groundwater to make drilling a well viable.
Water tables are not uniformly level, but follow ground contours to some extent.
The water table is nearer the surface in valleys, particularly those formed by rivers or creeks, and is harder to access at higher elevations. , Many older wells have no documentation, and even if records exist, someone who lived nearby may remember how much water those wells produced. , Your state's geological survey personnel may be able to answer general questions and direct you to resources beyond those mentioned here.
If you need more detailed information than what they can provide, you may need the services of a professional hydrologist.
Contact local well drilling companies, especially ones that have been established for a long time.
A 'Dowser' or 'Water Witcher' is a person who uses willow branches, brass rods or similar items to search for water.
If you want, you might employ one to help you find a good site. , Consult the appropriate municipal and state agencies to find out what permits you need to obtain before drilling and any regulations that govern drilling wells. -
Step 3: Find out what previous wells have been drilled on the property.
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Step 4: Consult geologic and topographic maps.
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Step 5: Ask people who live near the property.
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Step 6: Get assistance from a consultant.
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Step 7: Get whatever well-drilling permits you need.
Detailed Guide
Drilling a well involves a higher initial cost than connecting to a public water supply, as well as risks of not finding enough water or water of sufficient quality and ongoing costs to pump the water and maintain the well.
However, some water districts may make residents wait years before they can be connected to a public supply, thus making well drilling a viable option where there is enough groundwater at a reasonable depth.
You'll need to know the section, township, range and quarters to access land and well records through your state's geological survey or from your State Watermaster. , Geological survey records or state well drilling reports will record the depths of previous wells in the area and whether or not they found water.
You can access these records in person, by telephone or online.
These records can help you determine the depth of the water table, as well as the location of any confined aquifers.
Most aquifers are at the depth of the water table; these are called unconfined aquifers, as all the material above them is porous.
Confined aquifers are covered by nonporous layers, which, although they push the static water level above the top of the aquifer, are more difficult to drill into. , Although less useful than well-drilling records, geologic maps can show the general location of aquifers, as well as the rock formations in an area.
Topographic maps show the surface features and their elevations and can be used to plot well locations.
Together, they can determine whether an area has sufficient groundwater to make drilling a well viable.
Water tables are not uniformly level, but follow ground contours to some extent.
The water table is nearer the surface in valleys, particularly those formed by rivers or creeks, and is harder to access at higher elevations. , Many older wells have no documentation, and even if records exist, someone who lived nearby may remember how much water those wells produced. , Your state's geological survey personnel may be able to answer general questions and direct you to resources beyond those mentioned here.
If you need more detailed information than what they can provide, you may need the services of a professional hydrologist.
Contact local well drilling companies, especially ones that have been established for a long time.
A 'Dowser' or 'Water Witcher' is a person who uses willow branches, brass rods or similar items to search for water.
If you want, you might employ one to help you find a good site. , Consult the appropriate municipal and state agencies to find out what permits you need to obtain before drilling and any regulations that govern drilling wells.
About the Author
Marie Bennett
A passionate writer with expertise in home improvement topics. Loves sharing practical knowledge.
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