Water well drilling on a farm can be used for everything from supplying liquids for animal consumption to crop irrigation. To determine where your well should go, your contractor will analyze the area, amount of water underground, and your farm’s needs. If you’re looking to install this type of fixture on your property, here’s more information about the drilling process to help you prepare.

3 Steps to Water Well Drilling on a Farm

1. Siting

A hole dug below the water line will find water, but it may be contaminated by farming waste or not supply enough for your needs. Aquifers, which lie deep under the soil, are conglomerations of rocks or heavy clay that sustain water. A well must penetrate an aquifer to draw water from it. 

A professional will have maps of the area and determine whether the aquifer below your farm is used by another property, which may reduce liquid supplies. During the siting stage, they will also ensure your well is at least 50 feet away from septic tanks and livestock yards, 100 feet away from stored fertilizer, and 250 feet away from manure. They may also advise you to limit pesticide use in the area to avoid water contamination.

2. Drilling

After the site is determined, they will bore a hole to place a well casing in the ground, which will protect your water from debris. An 8-inch borehole will accommodate a 6-inch well casing, which supplies up to 1½ gallons of water per foot of well depth.

If you are using your well for irrigation, they may need to create a larger hole or dig deeper. For this reason, remember to discuss all applications for your new well.

3. Pump Testing

This is not only a verification of the pump, but also how well the entire water-drawing process works. The contractor will perform tests to verify the amount of water pumped on a sustained basis. Water should flow continuously through the well. If it does not, the unit may not be deep enough. It may barely reach the water level, and as it sucks water out, the overall water level lowers, causing unreliable flow. Several tests may be needed.

During this stage, they’ll also advise you on inspection and maintenance schedules. Please keep records of this information to make decisions to extend the life of your pump. 

If you’re looking for water well drilling experts who work on farms, turn to Holler Drilling & Plumbing. They’ve provided drilling services throughout La Crosse County, WI, for over 60 years. These professionals will assess the soil quality and needs of your property to make the right decisions for your well. They also perform maintenance. Learn more about their work with wells online or call (608) 781-2342 to receive a free estimate.