Nancy Grove and Peter Gale faced a dilemma when their 200-year-old dug well dried up for the first time. The couple from Baxters Harbour, N.S., had to choose between enduring an ongoing drought or investing approximately $20,000 in a new drilled well.
Similar to many residents in Nova Scotia, Grove and Gale had to rely on water deliveries from a local community center and a neighbor’s drilled well to access water. The well on their property, which had served the community including a church and school in the past, ceased providing potable water.
After monitoring the situation for weeks, Grove and Gale realized that the water table would not replenish soon, and with winter approaching, they needed a more sustainable solution than relying on their neighbor’s well. Despite feeling sentimental about retiring their old well, the couple, a retired nurse and a carpenter, decided to opt for a 91-meter-deep drilled well drilled in early October, considering it a valuable long-term investment.
Ian Spooner, a hydrogeology professor at Acadia University, emphasized the importance of evaluating various factors before deciding to drill a well. He cautioned that the drought might persist through the winter, delaying water table recovery until spring.
Spooner recommended exploring alternative water sources like ponds, rivers, natural springs, water haulers, and community wells before committing to drilling a new well. Some municipalities are offering financial programs to support property owners in need of new wells, and residents are encouraged to inquire about potential assistance.
Before proceeding with drilling, property owners are advised to consult with neighbors and professionals to assess the feasibility and quality of water sources. Understanding the property’s geology is crucial to avoid drilling in unsuitable areas.
The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables highlighted the importance of selecting appropriate groundwater sources based on the geology of the region. By accessing detailed maps of groundwater regions, landowners can make informed decisions regarding well drilling.
Spooner emphasized the significance of gathering information and considering long-term water security. While the current drought situation may not persist indefinitely, drilling a well can provide a more reliable water source for the future.