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Module 3 — Design and Construction of Water Wells
Other things to consider when choosing a licensed water well contractor are:
Are they approachable? Can you talk comfortably with them about the local geology,
their proposed well design and construction and the pumping equipment
they recommend?
Do they have a good reputation? Ask for references and check whether previous
cllients are happy with their wells.
Are they insured?
Are their prices competitive? The cheapest estimate may not translate into the
best well. Be sure to compare cost estimates carefully.
Will they use a written contract or agreement?
Will they provide any guarantee on workmanship and materials?
Will they be responsible for sizing and placement of the pump?
Are they knowledgeable and willing to discuss the regulations that govern water
well drilling in Alberta?
Choosing a Well Site
Your choice of well site will affect the safety and performance of your well. As you
examine various sites, remember to consider any future development plans for your farm or
acreage such as barns, storage sheds and bulk fuel tanks. You must also consider provincial
regulations that dictate well location.
Most contaminants enter the well either through the top or around the outside of the
casing. Sewage or other contaminants may percolate down through the upper layers of
the ground surface to the aquifer. The following criteria are intended to prevent possible
contamination of your well and the aquifer. It is both your and the driller’s responsibility to
ensure that:
The well is accessible for cleaning, testing, monitoring, maintenance and repair
The ground surrounding the well is sloped away from the well to prevent any
surface run off from collecting or ponding
The well is up-slope and as far as possible from potential contamination sources
such as septic systems, barnyards or surface water bodies
The well is not housed in any building other than a bona fide pump house.
The pump house must be properly vented to the outside to prevent any build-up
of dangerous naturally occurring gases and must house only the well and
pumping equipment
The well is not located in a well pit.