The water in an artesian well flows from an aquifer, which is a
layer of very porous rock or sediment, usually sandstone, capable
of holding and transmitting large quantities of water. The geologic
conditions necessary for an artesian well are an inclined aquifer
sandwiched between impervious rock layers above and below that trap
water in it. Water enters the exposed edge of the aquifer at a high
elevation and percolates downward through interconnected pore
spaces. The water held in these spaces is under pressure because of
the weight of water in the portion of the aquifer above it. If a
well is drilled from the land surface through the overlying
impervious layer into the aquifer, this pressure will cause the
water to rise in the well. In areas where the slope of the aquifer
is great enough, pressure will drive the water above ground level
in a spectacular, permanent fountain. Artesian springs can occur in
similar fashion where faults or cracks in the overlying impervious
layer allow water to flow upward. Water from an artesian well or
spring is usually cold and free of organic contaminants, making it
desirable for drinking.
The aquifer that supplies this well cannot be steep as Indiana
does not have that many hills. But as you approach the well, you
will see that the water is shot out at a high volume. The height
would be nice to see, but as you approach the well, you will see
the the structure of the well prohibits the water from shooting
into the air. The only explanation for the high volume is that the
aquifer must be huge.
To log this EarthCache, you must:
1. Post a picture of yourself and your GPSr at this Artesian well.
Bonus points will be given if the picture is of you drinking from
the well!! (This is no longer a requirement, but it is highly
encouraged)
2. Email me your estimate of the rate at which the well is pumping
out water. This can be done by bringing a container, of known
volume, along with you and time how long it takes to fill. Multiply
this number by 3 since the water is pumped out in three different
directions.
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