DOES WATER WITCHING WORK?
The answer to whether water witching works can differ significantly depending on who you ask. Historically, humans have been practicing witching to locate water for around 8,000 years. However, it's good to keep in mind its effectiveness doesn't always yield successful results for everyone.
In my own family, water witching has been passed down through generations. My grandfather Ed Martel was skilled at using Y-shaped willow branches to locate underground water sources. Whereas my dad and I gravitated towards using brass rods. We've even had a driller on our crew who would use a shovel for witching. My experience has shown that while witching might indicate the presence of water, I haven't found it to be a reliable indicator of the depth of the well or the flow of water.
For instance, when we drilled the well for the City of Hatton, there was a former mayor who was adamant that he could successfully predict the well depth and flow. As it turned out, his prediction did not align, and we ultimately didn't find water in the spot he witched.
Despite mixed results, we encourage water witching as a complementary practice to our well-drilling efforts. When water witching, it can lead to the intersection of two water flows, often a promising indicator of a good water source. So far, we've been fortunate, as we have yet to drill a dry well—knock on wood. Keep in mind there are city, state, and county regulations in place concerning the placement of wells in relation to septic tanks, roads, and various other structures or features. These regulations can significantly influence where you can situate your well. That's why it's essential to ensure your drilling company is thoroughly familiar with local laws and guidelines.
If you have any questions about the practice of witching, regulations surrounding well placement, or if you're interested in well drilling in dryland wheat farming areas, please don't hesitate to contact me. I'd be happy to share my knowledge and assist in any way I can. The best way to reach me is by phone at (509) 771-3043.
