Last Updated on April 3, 2025 by Brenda

Listen to the podcast with a well driller Going Down The Well

Written by Billy Billingsley, QCHC Climate and Health Coordinator

Groundwater and water wells are incredibly important to Quay County, New Mexico. The county, like much of New Mexico, relies heavily on agriculture, including farming and ranching. For residents and businesses, groundwater serves as the primary source of drinking water. In rural areas, especially where municipal water systems are less common, private water wells are vital for providing safe and reliable water for homes and farms.

Water wells play a significant role in Quay County and, when it comes to drilling one, there are several factors to consider.

Can water wells be difficult to drill?

Drilling a water well can be a complex and costly process depending on the depth and location of the water, but it can provide a reliable source of water for many years when professionally installed and maintained.

Drilling a water well involves several important steps including a site location with an adequate amount of water, planning for the right equipment, drilling the well using a casing to keep the well from collapsing, water testing for bacteria and harmful substances, pump installation, sealing the well to prevent contamination, and regular maintenance.

Drilling water wells can also be difficult depending on several other factors. Some challenges can make the process more complex. The type of soil, rock formations, and underground structures can make drilling difficult. Hard rock layers or unstable ground may slow down the drilling process or require more specialized equipment. If the water table is very deep, it requires more advanced drilling techniques. Shallow wells are generally easier to drill. In areas with difficult terrain, such as mountains, canyons, or densely forested regions, getting the drilling equipment to the site can be a challenge. Sometimes, even after drilling, the well may yield water that is not suitable for consumption due to high mineral content or contamination.

Overall, while it is possible to drill a well in many locations, it is a process that requires careful planning, expertise, and the right equipment.

How do you keep a well safe?

Keeping a well safe is crucial for ensuring that the water remains clean and safe to drink. A well should be constructed by a professional, ensuring the casing is in place and extends deep enough to prevent contaminants from seeping in. Deeper wells are less likely to be contaminated, as they are less susceptible to surface pollution. The well cover, casing, and surrounding area should be periodically checked for any damage or signs of contamination from cracks, leaks, open spaces, or rust.

The well should be located away from potential sources of contamination, such as septic tanks, manure piles, or hazardous waste sites. This helps prevent runoff or leaching of contaminants into the well. The well casing should extend several inches above the ground to prevent surface water from flowing into the well. The ground around the well should slope away to prevent water from pooling near the well. This reduces the risk of contaminants from rainwater runoff entering the well.

Water should be regularly evaluated for bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, and other potential contaminants. This is especially important after repairs or heavy rainfall. Over time, wells may accumulate sediment and other materials. Additionally, the wellhead should be covered with a sanitary seal that is designed to prevent surface water from entering. Hazardous materials like pesticides, oils, or cleaning agents should never be dumped near the well, as they can easily infiltrate groundwater supplies.

By following these practices, the risk of contamination of the well is significantly reduced.

What are signs that a well is going dry?

When a water well is starting to go dry, there are several signs that may indicate a decreasing water supply. Some common signs include a decrease in water flow, change in water quality, continuously running pumps or longer pump times, suction signs from the pump, dry spells, and overuse. To that end, water conservation techniques may go a long way in extending the well water supply.

If a well is going dry, a well-professional can assess the situation and possibly help restore the water level or recommend alternatives.

How do wells replenish?

Water wells replenish through a process called recharge, where water from natural sources like rain, rivers, or nearby lakes seeps into the ground to refill underground water reserves. This process can happen when it rains and water soaks into the ground, replenishing the aquifers, especially if they are above the water table. This process is called infiltration. Also in some areas, people actively try to replenish groundwater by methods like creating recharge ponds or injecting water into the ground to help maintain the water table.

The replenishment process can take place anywhere from a few days to centuries, depending on the environment, the depth of the well, and the groundwater system. In areas where water is extracted faster than it can replenish, wells may begin to dry up or the water table may drop.