Terminology

Well Words

Aquifer
Geologic formation that contains saturated and permeable material capable of transmitting water in a sufficient quantity to supply wells.

Casing
Casing is a steel or plastic pipe installed to prevent borehole cave-in, and to seal the upper portion of the well.

Development
Development involves vigorously pumping the well to help clean out drill cuttings and to maximize production of the well. Development should result in a well which produces sand-free or mud-free water unless over-pumped.

Liner
The inner tubing, pipe, or conduit installed inside the well casing or lower well bore. Used to protect against caving formations and is not permanently fixed to the drill hole wall or casing.

Pump Test
The procedure involving pumping water for a specified period of time to determine the yield characteristics of an aquifer.

Static Water Level
The stabilized level or elevation of water in a well not being pumped.

Surface Seal
To prevent surface water (which may be contaminated) from running down along side the casing of the well, Oregon code requires a minimum of 18 feet of surface seal to be installed (pure cement or bentonite).

Well Depth
The depth of a well can be measured by using a weighted line or by measuring the drill pipe in the hole when the drilling is completed.

Well Log
You will receive a copy of your well report from the driller when construction is finished. Keep the copy for future references. Well log records can be found at the WRD and can be accessed online. You will need your section, township and range in order to find the correct location of a well. Call your county's assessor for this information.