Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

How can well water contamination from surface water be minimized?

1. Usable depth

2. Grouting

3. Casing

4. Sealing

The correct answer is: Casing

Casing refers to the pipe used to line a well, which serves multiple purposes in ensuring that well water remains uncontaminated by surface water. It creates a physical barrier that prevents surface contaminants from entering the well. Proper casing extends above the ground level, which helps protect the well from runoff and other sources of contamination. Additionally, the casing material is typically constructed to resist corrosion and degradation, ensuring a longer-lasting protection for the groundwater. Effective casing practices, such as using the appropriate diameter and ensuring the casing is driven to a suitable depth, significantly limit the intrusion of surface water into the well. This is critical in maintaining the quality of the water that is drawn from the aquifer, as surface water often contains pathogens, chemicals, and other contaminants that can pose serious health risks. While other aspects, such as sealing and grouting, contribute to protecting a well, casing is fundamentally crucial, as it provides the necessary structural support and barrier to shield the well from surface water contamination in the first place.