Local knowledge A long history of dowsing Discussion questions
There are many techniques to find water with ‘divining’ instruments – metal hooks, pendulums, olive branches, willow branches etc. This ancient methods – which are widespread – are called ‘dowsing’. Here are some examples from India.
Using a neem stick to find water
First the skin of the coconut is removed Or locating groundwater with the help of coconuts
Walking around with coconut to find water
Coconut points up when water is present
Discussion questions These dowsing techniques come from India: are similar techniques used in your area? How widespread are they? Are there good/ bad experiences? What does this tell us on the importance of local knowledge? Could we and should we engage local dowsers in local groundwater management?