Assessing changes in static water well levels is one way in which we can help a landowner be aware of changes in water access/availability at their home. Changes to the static water well level in your well from the time of drilling to now is an indicator of effects of prolonged drought and continued fresh water diversion for industrial purposes. This information supports us in our advocacy efforts to the province for changes that ensure judicial use of water by industry- particularly during drought.
Information for Landowners requesting a well assessment
Prior to requesting a static water level assessment for your well, there are a few things you need to know.
The Member must reside within the Medicine River Watershed area.
MRWS Membership and Static Well Assessment. A paid membership of $1/year will entitle the member to be a non-voting member at board meetings, to receive minutes and information provided at meetings and to request a static well assessment on one well for a fee of $100.
The well assessment will include two readings- one in the summer and one in the fall. The landowner may request additional wells to be tested at an additional cost of $50/well and dependent upon location and proximity.
The reason for a charge for this service is not to create a profit for the society- but is rather to cover the cost of equipment, provide payment to the assessor and cover mileage for two assessments.
Upon submission of the membership application, receipt of the $1.00 membership fee and indication of interest in having a well assessed, the member will be contacted to arrange a visit to assess the well using a sonic water meter.
You can apply for membership by clicking on the button below and completing the form.
Memberships and assessment fees must be paid prior to the well assessment. Payment may be made by e-transfer to medicineriverwatershed@gmail.com or by cheque payable to Medicine River Watershed Society.
A copy of the original drilling report indicating the static water level at the time of drilling is required. This enables us to compare levels from the time of drilling to now. (If report not available, this may be accessed on-line)
The landowner must sign a responsibility agreement and a liability waiver prior to the assessor performing the procedure.
The landowner must be present at the time of assessment.
The landowner will ensure that there is a clear and safe path to the well head (clear of any obstacles, debris, livestock etc). We are not able to assess water wells that are located in a pit.
The landowner is responsible to remove the well cap at the time of assessment and to replace the well cap following the assessment.
The assessor will use a sonic water level meter to measure the depth of the static water level. No objects are entered into the well.
The assessor will record the level and provide the landowner with the report.
The data recorded will also be retained by the MRWS to present where the society deems important with the land location identified but not the landowner. The original drillers report is public information available on the government website
The visit will be videotaped. The assessor will wear a bodycam to record the process from his arrival to departure. This will help to resolve any disputes that should arise.