Guidelines for Well Drilling

A well refers to an artificially constructed opening in the ground aimed at accessing a liquid resource. The primary liquid sought after is typically water: Approximately 97% of the Earth's fresh water is located within underground aquifers, with an estimated 15 million households in the United States relying on water wells. These wells serve various purposes, from monitoring water quality to providing drinking water after suitable treatment. The process of drilling a well can be executed in multiple ways, each with its considerations, as elaborated below.

Evaluating the financial implications and benefits of well drilling compared to water transport or piping. Drilling a well involves higher initial costs compared to connecting to a municipal water supply. Additionally, there are inherent risks such as the possibility of insufficient water or poor water quality. Moreover, there are ongoing expenses associated with pumping water and maintaining the well. Nonetheless, in certain areas where residents may face extended waiting periods for connection to a public water supply, drilling a well remains a viable option provided there is an adequate groundwater supply at a reasonable depth.

Familiarize yourself with the precise location of the property earmarked for well drilling. You will require information regarding the section, township, range, and quarters to access land and well records, obtainable through your state's geological survey or the State Watermaster office.

Refer to geologic and topographic maps for guidance. While not as comprehensive as well-drilling records, geologic maps can offer insight into the general location of aquifers and the geological formations in the vicinity. Topographic maps delineate surface features and elevations, aiding in the identification of suitable well sites. These maps collectively assist in assessing the availability of groundwater, a crucial factor in determining the feasibility of drilling a well.

• Water tables exhibit variability and are influenced by terrain contours. Valleys, particularly those carved by rivers or streams, tend to have higher water tables, whereas accessing water at higher elevations can be more challenging.

Engage with local residents for insights. In cases where well documentation is lacking, individuals residing nearby may possess firsthand knowledge regarding the productivity of existing wells.

Seek guidance from professional consultants. State geological survey personnel can offer general assistance and direct you to additional resources. For more specialized inquiries, consider enlisting the expertise of a professional hydrologist.

• Explore local well drilling companies, particularly those with established reputations.
• Consider consulting a 'Dowser' or 'Water Witcher,' individuals adept at using tools like willow branches or brass rods to locate water sources.

Obtain the necessary permits for well drilling. Consult relevant municipal and state authorities to ascertain the required permits and any regulations governing well drilling activities.

Choose a drilling location clear of potential contaminants. Areas near animal feedlots, buried fuel tanks, waste disposal sites, and septic systems pose risks of groundwater contamination. Wells should be sited for easy maintenance access and positioned at least 5 feet (1.5 meters) away from construction sites.

• Each state has specific regulations regarding well placement and required setbacks, which must be adhered to. Experienced well drillers are well-versed in these regulations.

Finalize the well construction. Following drilling, casing is installed to safeguard against water contamination from the well walls. Typically, the casing is of smaller diameter than the well hole, commonly 6 inches (15 cm), and can be constructed from steel or Schedule 40 PVC. It is sealed in place using grouting material such as clay or concrete. To prevent groundwater contamination, a sand and gravel filter bag is placed inside the casing before capping the well with a sanitary seal. If not an Artesian Well, requiring no pump due to natural pressure, a pump is attached to extract water to the surface.

• For steel casing, a perforator tool is sometimes employed to determine water depth by cutting openings in the casing using the drill's compressed air at low volume.
• In sandy soils, longer sections of casing with steel laser-cut slotted screens or PVC liners are used, enhancing sand filtration.

• It's highly advisable to engage a reputable well-drilling contractor for the actual drilling process. Seek recommendations from state or local contractor associations, as well as groundwater associations, for reliable information on drilling contractors.
• Most states mandate comprehensive testing procedures along with specific insurance and bonding prerequisites. Ensure compliance by checking with your State Licensing Board for any licensing issues that may have arisen.