Hydrofracturing

Remediation Injection

Packer Services

Borehole Video Camera

The Basic Problem

The production of water from  wells completed in hard rock formations, such as crystalline rocks, limestones, dolomites, and sandstones is dependent on the size, number, and interconnection of cracks in the rock that are intercepted by the well. If a water well does not penetrate an adequate number of water-filled features, the well production will be insufficient to meet the needs of the homeowner.

An existing well can become a dry well or low producing well for a number of possible reasons. Probably the most prominent reason is lack of recharge. Colorado has been in a significant drought for about 10 years and we have not had the snowfall and subsequent melting which replenishes the fractures. Shallow wells (less than about 200 feet) are most susceptible to drought conditions. Additionally, a well can decrease in yield due to siltation and the accumulation of mineral deposits which can block or plug the fractures. On rare occasions, wells that are close (less than about 50 feet) together may interfere with each other.

Water Well before hydrofracturing.

Water Well after hydrofracturing.

What can be done about a dry or low producing well?

Hydrofracture in process on newly drilled well by the The Bureau of Reclamation for a U. S. Forest Service picnic ground in the Poudre Canyon west of Ft. Collins.

Where natural fractures are absent or too tightly closed, new cracks can be opened and developed by the hydrofracturing procedures. Other options that can be considered include: redrilling, deepening the well, adding a storage facility, having water delivered, and conserving. These options are addressed on a project specific basis.

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