Nancy Grove and Peter Gale faced a tough decision when their 200-year-old dug well dried up for the first time due to an ongoing drought in Nova Scotia. They had to choose between enduring the dry spell or investing approximately $20,000 in a drilled well.
Having relied on water deliveries from the local community center and borrowing water from a neighbor with a drilled well, the couple finally decided to drill a 91-meter-deep well in early October to secure a more reliable water source for the future.
According to Ian Spooner, a hydrogeology professor, choosing to drill a well requires careful consideration of factors like cost and property geology. While drilled wells are more dependable in drought conditions, alternative water sources like ponds, rivers, groundwater springs, and community wells should also be explored before making a decision.
Some municipalities are offering financial assistance programs for residents in need of new wells. It is crucial for property owners to understand their land’s geology to avoid drilling in unsuitable areas that may result in a failed well.
Knowing the geology of the land is vital, as different soil types can affect well drilling success. Sand and gravel deposits are generally good sources of groundwater, while some minerals can pose drilling challenges and contaminate water.
While the decision to drill a well can be a significant investment, it provides long-term security, especially during prolonged droughts. Understanding all the relevant information is key for property owners considering well drilling as a solution for their water needs.