Water Well Journal
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/655200
consume more energy for less yield over time. If they start out inefficient, if their efficiencies are not maintained, then they will mature more rapidly and per- form less efficiently more quickly. As an asset, a well serves the longest and most economically when it begins at a high efficiency and is maintained. Development should be discussed prior to construction—in fact, the thought process for well development starts when the test hole is drilled. It is strongly recommended development be discussed as part of the well design and bid process. As part of the goals of development, there should be clear expectations as to the responsibilities and objectives of the effort. Methods should be discussed and approved with benchmarks established ahead of time. All parties should be a part of these discussions. Key issues should include: • Clear expectations and goals of the work • Outline of approved methods (multiple recommended) • Minimum time and per hour cost • Achievable benchmarks defined by a stepped rate test prior to turnover. As the nature of groundwater use changes and we as an industry are faced with more challenges with regards to production and water quality, recogniz- ing and acting on a better understanding of the importance of development is essential. Poor or incomplete well de- velopment can impact well efficiency, water quality, maintenance efforts, and severely affect the operational lifespan of the well. In essence, development defines the well as a groundwater resource. Christopher S. Johnson, PG, CHg, is the president and principal hydro- geologist at Aegis Groundwater Consulting in Fresno, California. Johnson works with well owners and operators on a variety of groundwater-related projects including locating new water resources, well design, and construction management, aquifer testing, and well rehabilitation. He can be reached at aegisgc@gmail.com. Michael J. Schnieders, PG, PH-GW, is the president and principal hydro- geologist at Water Systems Engineering Inc. in Ottawa, Kansas. He has an extensive background in groundwater geochemistry, geomicrobiology, and water resource investigation and manage- ment. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of fouled wells and potable water systems. He can be reached at mschnieders @h2osystems.com. WWJ Residual bentonite visible within a well at 649.9 feet 30 days after completion. DEVELOPMENT from page 25 waterwelljournal.com 26 April 2016 WWJ PROBES WINCHES LOGGERS SOFTW ARE OUTSTANDING IN OUR FIELD mount sopris instruments is a leading manufacturer of slimline borehole geophysical logging systems for downhole groundwater applications. Learn more at mountsopris.com or call 303-279-3211