Most of the water that we see while out of the house on an average day comes from rain and snow, or is found in lakes and ponds. That is what most people think of when they’re asked about water. However, a lot of the water that we actually use doesn’t come directly from those sources. Much of the water that we find in our plumbing comes from groundwater, found in underground water pockets called aquifers. When a drought happens, we notice the world drying up, lakes and ponds getting smaller as rainfall becomes scarce, but what happens to the groundwater in times of drought, and how does this affect people who are reliant on groundwater for most or all of their plumbing needs?
Is Groundwater Affected By Drought?
At first glance a drought only seems to affect surface water. Groundwater doesn’t evaporate into the atmosphere because it stays underground and doesn’t come into contact with sunlight. It might seem as though groundwater is completely protected from the drying effects of a drought. However, it is important to remember that groundwater doesn’t necessarily always originate underground. Our world’s water is part of a cycle. Groundwater comes from different sources, including rivers, streams, runoff and rain. When any part of that cycle is losing water, the rest will eventually be affected. Groundwater can take a few years to deplete, but it is affected by drought.
What Does This Mean For Well Users?
If you are reliant on an aquifer, a drought might not impact you right away when it comes to getting water from your well. However, there are several ways that drought can affect well users. As aquifers change, so does the ground above them. During times of drought it is vital to avoid over-pumping. Remember that you are probably not the only person who uses an aquifer, and it is your responsibility to help avoid depleting an aquifer to the point where the land above it will sink down and permanently decrease that aquifer’s capacity. If your well goes dry, it is best to consult American Water Surveyors about your next move.
How Can American Water Surveyors Help?
We cannot stop a drought from happening but we can show you where to drill to find water and advise you in times of drought on how to protect and not over-pump your aquifer. By placing and drilling your well in an optimal location and to an optimal depth, we ensure that you have less to worry about when the rain doesn’t fall for a while.
Stay Safe and Hydrated, Even During a Drought
If you need to drill a new well, make certain to contact American Water Surveyors before you take action. We are experts in locating ground water so you know where and how far your well drillers should drill. This saves you time and money – and gets you the well you need even in seasons of drought.
