What Is a Hydrogeological Survey and Why Is It Important

If you’re planning to drill a borehole, the last thing you want is to invest heavily only to end up with a dry or low-yield well. That’s where a hydrogeological survey comes in. Think of it as a roadmap to underground water—a study that determines if water exists in your area, how deep you need to drill, and whether the water is safe.

At Bonvic Drilling Company, we recommend conducting a hydrogeological survey before any drilling project.

This blog post will explain a hydrogeological survey, why it’s important, and how it can save you time and money while ensuring a sustainable water source.

Aslo read Do You Need Permits to Drill a Borehole in Kenya?

1. What Is a Hydrogeological Survey?

A hydrogeological survey is a scientific study that assesses groundwater availability, depth, quality, and sustainability before drilling a borehole. It involves evaluating underground water sources (aquifers) to determine the best drilling location, the expected water yield, and potential risks such as contamination or seasonal depletion.

The survey considers several factors, including:

Groundwater availability – Is there enough water underground to support a borehole?
Depth estimation – How deep must the borehole be drilled to reach water?
Water quality – Is the water free from contaminants such as fluoride, salinity, or bacteria?
Aquifer characteristics – How does water move underground, and is it sustainable over time?

Drilling a borehole becomes a risky and expensive guessing game without this crucial information.

2. Why Is a Hydrogeological Survey Important?

Many borehole projects fail because they are started without proper groundwork. A hydrogeological survey helps eliminate uncertainty, ensuring you get the best results from your investment. Below are the key reasons why this survey is essential:

1. Confirms the Presence of Water

Not every location has enough groundwater to sustain a borehole. A survey confirms whether water is available before drilling begins, preventing costly disappointments.

2. Determines Borehole Depth

A borehole must be drilled deep enough to access a reliable water supply. A hydrogeological survey helps to determine the optimal depth to reach water, avoiding unnecessary drilling costs.

3. Avoids Dry or Low-Yield Boreholes

Some boreholes produce very little water, making them inefficient for domestic, farming, or industrial use. A hydrogeological survey identifies areas with high-yield aquifers, ensuring a sustainable water source.

4. Ensures Water Quality

In some areas, underground water is contaminated with fluoride, salinity, or bacteria. A survey includes water quality assessments, helping you decide if additional filtration or treatment is required.

5. Saves Time and Money

Drilling a borehole without proper research can lead to wasted time and high costs. A survey ensures that drilling is done correctly the first time, saving money in the long run.

Investing in a hydrogeological survey increases the chances of getting a productive, safe, and sustainable borehole.

Also read How Deep Can a Hand Pump Work in a Borehole?

3. What Does a Hydrogeological Survey Involve?

A professional hydrogeological survey follows a systematic process to gather accurate data. Here’s what the process involves:

1. Site Inspection

Experts visit your location to assess the terrain, surrounding boreholes, and natural water sources. This helps identify the best areas for groundwater potential.

2. Geophysical Survey

Advanced scientific equipment such as electrical resistivity meters and seismic surveys are used to locate underground water-bearing formations (aquifers).

3. Soil & Rock Analysis

Different soil and rock types affect groundwater storage and flow. The survey analyzes the geological composition to determine drilling feasibility.

4. Water Quality Assessment

If needed, water samples from nearby boreholes are tested for fluoride, salinity, and bacteria to ensure the safety of your future water supply.

5. Report & Recommendations

A detailed report is prepared, including:

Recommended drilling depth
Expected water yield (liters per hour)
Water quality assessment
Borehole construction guidelines

This report serves as a blueprint for a successful drilling project.

4. Who Should Conduct a Hydrogeological Survey?

A hydrogeological survey should be conducted by licensed hydrogeologists and drilling experts who understand groundwater dynamics. At Bonvic Drilling Company, we work with professionals who ensure accurate results, helping clients make informed decisions before drilling.

Kenya’s Water Resources Authority (WRA) also requires a hydrogeological survey report as part of the borehole drilling permit process.

Also read Borehole Collapse? Here’s How to Fix It Effectively

5. How Much Does a Hydrogeological Survey Cost in Kenya?

The cost of a hydrogeological survey in Kenya depends on location, depth requirements, and testing complexity. On average, Bonvic Drilling Company charges Ksh 50,000 for a comprehensive survey, covering all necessary assessments and reports.

Although this may seem like an additional cost, it prevents far greater losses from failed boreholes, making it a smart investment.

Conclusion

A hydrogeological survey is not just an option—it’s necessary for anyone planning to drill a borehole. It ensures that you drill in the right location, at the right depth, and with the right water yield and quality expectations. Without it, you risk wasting money on a borehole that may not meet your needs.

At Bonvic Drilling Company, we are committed to helping clients secure reliable, clean, and sustainable water sources. Our experienced team provides professional hydrogeological surveys, borehole drilling, and complete water solutions across Kenya.

Thinking of drilling a borehole? Don’t take chances—contact Bonvic Drilling Company today for a professional hydrogeological survey!