If you’ve ever watched an old movie where settlers are looking for water, you may have seen the characters use a dowsing rod. Also called “water witching,” dowsing is an antiquated method using a forked branch – when water is present, the rod appears to point downward. However, this practice has been disproven and mostly discarded in modern practices. With all of the advancements in locating groundwater reservoirs, there are several important factors considered. Hydro Resources, an expert in water well drilling, shares several ways how groundwater exploration can be done.
Looking for Liquid: Groundwater Exploration
Landscape
One indicator of groundwater is to look at the surrounding environment. Though many industries are located in seemingly desolate areas, the landscape provides several clues about water. Professionals look for signs such as native plant life to give them an idea about potential water surpluses. Locations like valleys or draws can also provide groundwater exploration teams a visual clue about the environment.
Geology
Rocks are the most significant natural indicator of water. Sedimentary rocks, which are made up of sand and small stones, are more porous than other types of rocks. This composition allows water to flow more easily through and between it. The presence of sedimentary rocks creates an ideal groundwater environment.
Science
Geologists and hydrogeologists consult existing geological maps to determine the makeup of an area’s environment. These plans are helpful in determining the best locations for water exploration, based on a variety of factors. Additionally, these maps assist water well designers in determining the right equipment and idea placement to maximize water production.
Technology
Mechanical advancements take the guesswork out of looking for water. Options, such as our surface hydrogeophysics equipment or state of the art exploratory drilling methods, help companies to save time and money when it comes to locating the best groundwater options. Technology has provided the water location industry a variety of options when it comes to efficiently identifying more productive areas for water.
Are you interested in the different ways how groundwater exploration can be done? Schedule a consultation with the team at Hydro Resources now.
Unfortunately, it’s not likely that you can drill a hole in your property and instantaneously find water. There are a variety of scientific methods which are employed to determine the presence of water. Each technique implements specialty instruments used to fine-tune that process. Hydro Resources discusses several pieces of equipment used in groundwater exploration and explains how they simplify the process.
Tools of the Trade: Equipment Used in Groundwater Exploration
There are a variety of highly technological apparatuses that help professional water well drilling companies locate and drill for groundwater. When you choose to work with Hydro Resources, our exploration team provides you with several technology-based options that will help assess the availability of water at your location. Some of these methods include:
Surface Geophysical: Hydrogeologists can identify water deposits and reservoirs deep below the earth’s surface by employing maps, collected historical data, and specialty tools. Our experienced professionals use electrical resistivity equipment to map water options and estimate the duration of your water supply. This method is relatively “non-invasive,” meaning that minimal digging is required.
Well Logging: For more substantial results, your water exploration company may recommend well logging. Similar to logging in the oil and gas industry, water well logging uses equipment to capture a picture of the water formation from pre-existing water wells. An experienced logger can verify the best places to drill, as well as areas that may have dried up.
Test Wells: In areas with no nearby water wells, a test well might be necessary to help assess water availability.
Aquifer Testing: Also referred to as “slug” testing, water exploration companies will often use high-tech equipment to assess and monitor the flow of an existing aquifer. Hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, and storage are three tests that determine the quality of an aquifer.
Contact the Professionals at Hydro Resources
Though this is a simple explanation of the testing and equipment used in groundwater exploration, know that you can rely on the professionals at Hydro Resources. Our experienced team provides solutions to a variety of environments and industries. If you have questions about the equipment used during our exploration process, contact us today.
