A groundwater well is an excavation and structure created by digging, driving, or drilling to access water located in an aquifer. Modern groundwater wells bring the water to the surface by means of an electric pump. Most well water is potable with little or no treatment. According to the California Department of Water Resources, there are nearly two million groundwater wells operating in California with approximately 7,000 to 15,000 new wells constructed each year. The depth required to reach water varies from 30 feet to more than one thousand feet. Aquifers can be found in many areas of California including the High Desert and Low Desert. The best site for a groundwater well is usually determined by a hydrogeologist or groundwater surveyor. Well Drilling Contractors (Classification C-57) are licensed to install and service groundwater wells in California.

Springs and seeps occur where groundwater discharges to the surface. Seeps are wet areas, while springs have flowing water. A seep, also known as a flush, reaches the surface from an underground aquifer. Springs with a substantial flow of water often serve as the headwaters for streams and rivers.

A microclimate or micro-climate is a local set of atmospheric conditions that differ materially from those in the surrounding area. The area may be of any size, but generally are not large. Sometimes a microclimate exists naturally. Often microclimates are created by land owners who want to convert a hot desert or semi arid area into a cooler, more hospitable area. This would include creating ponds and artificial rock waterfalls, and planting suitable trees and plants. These are known to cool the surrounding areas, thus creating a microclimate. When neighboring property owners do the same, the effect is multiplied. The creation of microclimates also increases the value of desert properties.

Before You Make an Offer to Acquire Land

Glossary of Groundwater and Water Well Terms

Benefits of Planting Trees