After buying property in Alaska, you may not have access to a municipal water system. When this happens, you may need drilling contractors to build a well on the land so that you have a fresh supply and can monitor the groundwater. However, Alaska presents unique challenges for groundwater sampling, especially when the land is in a rural area. Below are several common issues and how companies work around them.

What are the Challenges of Alaskan Drilling?

1. Weather

Winter in Alaska typically lasts from October to March, and snow can appear as early as September. Due to short, mild summers, you may encounter snow throughout the year if your property is on the interior of the state, as this land is colder than the temperate coastal areas. In the heart of winter, the snow and ice that accumulates on the ground can be more than 10 inches deep, even in the Anchorage area, making traditional drilling methods ineffective. Instead, companies use augers with powerful bits to break through the frozen area and reach the groundwater beneath.

2. Rural Access

Most of Alaska consists of rural areas, which may not have road access. Traditional drilling techniques use large machines that are mounted to the backs of trucks. However, these rigs cannot drive through the rough, uneven terrain, which means getting the equipment on-site can be a significant challenge. To overcome this, your contractor may use a smaller rig that is easier to navigate. Alternatively, they may bring a smaller device to your location by flying it in, giving them access to remote areas.

3. Frozen Ground

The lack of daylight hours combined with freezing temperatures that dip below -20 degrees creates permafrost. This is permanently frozen soil that exists throughout more than 85% of the state. This occurs when the winter freezes the ground deeper than the summer can thaw. While the ground may look thawed on the surface, it can remain frozen beneath the initial layer, preventing traditional drilling equipment from penetrate it. However, specialized tools can break through the permafrost, allowing contractors to sample and monitor the groundwater.

When you need help with groundwater sampling or well monitoring, contact GeoTek Alaska in Anchorage. These geotechnical drilling contractors use small, maneuverable machines to access remote areas to help you get the information that you need. Visit the website to learn more about their services, and call (907) 569-5900 to speak with a team member about your needs.