The Importance of Well Rehabilitation Presented by Randy Hudson A.C. Schultes of Carolina, Inc.

Biography Randy Hudson A.C.Schultes of Carolina, Inc. Operations Manager 29 years of experience in the well construction industry, all with A.C. Schultes Inc. Certified well contractor in three states, multi OSHA and safety certifications Married 26 years with two sons, age 20 & 17 Enjoys golfing, fishing and travel

TODAY’S OBJECTIVES Understanding the importance of well rehabilitation. How well construction effects well rehabilitation. Review of well rehabilitation techniques.

Why is well rehabilitation important? Cost Public Water Agriculture

Typical Well Problem Most Common Well Problem=Loss in Capacity Well over 40 years old No inspection in 10 years Biggest factor=specific capacity Is it a well or pump Issue Current records

What’s lacking? Simple Well Solutions Well inspections and assessments Record keeping General well knowledge and understanding Well maintenance has largely been neglected and limited to mechanical and electrical maintenance of well pumps and motors. Early warning signs and monitoring practices are not implemented as they should be to assist in the longevity of the well.

Why communication is important…. There is a significant need for communications and education on preventive maintenance methods and procedures to the well designers, well systems operators and the operating community.

When is rehab necessary? Rehabilitation Curve Rehabilitation should begin when production efficiency drops to 85%, to increase the chance of a successful well rehabilitation.

How well construction effects well rehabilitation Hole diameter Drilling method Fluid control Screen type and slot size Gravel size and uniformity Gravel pack thickness Water quality Development time and methods How hard and often the well is pumped.

Factors that cause changes Physical Plugging Chemical/Mineral Encrustation Combinations Velocity Considerations Biological Growths Iron related bacteria Slime forming bacteria Sulfate reducing bacteria Well rehabilitation is a necessary function caused by factors such as biological and physical changes to the well. These occur in the subsurface aquifers as a result of increased movement of water toward the well entrance, resulting in a decline in well performance.

Well Rehabilitation Techniques Mechanical redevelopments Hydraulic techniques Chemical treatments

Water is our most precious commodity With many methods and options available, well maintenance should be a part of every budget and long term planning. Water is our most precious commodity and without a properly designed and efficient well, no water will be consumed by the community.