Geology, a.k.a Rocks!
Rocks are one of the biggest indicators for the likelihood of groundwater accumulation or aquifers. Certain rocks, both above ground and underground can indicate the likely presence of water. Some characteristics that geologists watch for are ground rocks with large cracks that could allow water to drain or seep down and collect. Underground, continuous sedimentary rock shelves can indicate an aquifer, depending on what’s above ground and the geographical location.
Aquifers are supplied by the natural seepage of rainwater through the earth and rocks above ground and a good hydrologist will be able to determine the chances of shallow groundwater reserves (such as in valleys) or deeply located aquifers.
Existing Water Sources
Due diligence is another major part of how scientists determine where groundwater is likely to be found. Even in arid places, ground water can be found by paying close attention to area plant life. The problem with this is that even in areas where a swamp may be visible, or a water loving species of plant, the shallow ground water located in the area may not be a sufficient amount to deem it usable for consumption.
Canvasing an area to determine where current or past wells have been located is another indicator to the likelihood of finding a usable ground water source.
Best Scientific Methods
Electro-Seismic: This method has been found to be the most accurate and cost effective method for locating groundwater for wells prior to drilling, and is quickly becoming the method of choice for land-owners, farmers, developers, utility companies, and domestic wells.
Bore Hole Hydro Physical Logging: This method involves drilling a series of holes deep into the ground and doing a series of extensive tests in order to map, determine depth and water quality of the aquifer. This method is used by municipal water districts and developers to locate new groundwater sources for growing populations and although it is very expensive, it’s a proven method.
Not So Scientific Methods
Dowsing: Also known as water-witching, is an entirely non-scientific method that people have attempted to use to locate ground water for eons. The method has been tested time and time again and has been found lacking in many ways. A “Y” or “L” shaped twig or apparatus is used and is held in hand, parallel to the ground and the ‘dowser’ walks over the area where water is suspected and waits for the twig to twitch or dip down toward the ground – this apparently indicates water. This is a method also used, verbatim, to find oil deposits and gem stones. It is clear why the method is quickly debunked, on account of the huge amount of human influence and error involved.
Finding ground water is an important endeavor that is still under development. Technology is an important part of this discovery process, and as technology changes and adapts, so do ground water location methods.
Need to find ground water? Call us. We use very accurate and scientific seismoelectric technology to save you time, money and hassle in locating water. Call before you dig. Well drillers charge by the foot whether they strike water or not. Don’t risk a dry hole and thousands of dollars. Put our experience, equipment and technology to work for you.
Contact American Water Surveyors at:
Call: 877-SEISMO1 (734-7661) or 817-788-5716
Fax: 817-210-4225
Email: [email protected]
