Artesian spring openings are very subtle, so doen't expect a strong
water flow, that would be rare or more along the lines of an
artesian well which is man made(see illustration). Several artesian
springs may combine and make a larger spring that is easily seen,
but an isolated artesian spring is often difficult to see, so don't
expect a heavy water flow. Take a picture of any of these springs
as proof of your find.
Artesian water is rain water which has fallen on some porous bed
or stratum of earth and has followed the sloping course of this bed
between other beds, which were sufficiently dense enough to trap
water until it has found an opening to the surface, whether natural
or manmade, at a lower level than its original source, so as to
flow down-hill. When this opening is a natural one it is a spring;
when artificial it is an artesian well.
In order to produce an artesian spring, there must be the proper
conditions. These conditions depend upon the geology, topography,
and its rainfall. The geologic conditions are that there shall be a
continuous porous stratum enclosed between two strata that are
impervious. Topographically it is necessary that the exposed
portion of this porous stratum--the "catchment" basin--be at
sufficient elevation above that of the mouth of the wells to force
a steady flow of water by hydrostatic pressure; and finally the
rainfall must be sufficient within the area covered by the
catchment basin to secure the steady supply of water.
Unless all of these conditions be favorable there can be no
constant supply of flowing water obtained. Below is how the
artesian springs in Edwards are created, although the artesian
spring for this cache is located on Village creek, rest assured
that all artesian springs originate in a similar manner.
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Kid Friendly
Cache In -
Trash Out! Snakes
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