|
O'Donnell & Associates, Inc.
"Putting geology to work for you"
What's New At O'Donnell & Associates, Inc.
May 19, 2012 OAI celebrated its 13th birthday with a signing of a new client, Jackie Fulse. We appreciate all our family, friends and clients like Jackie for their prayers and trust in OAI over the past 13 years and we look forward as we enter our 14th year providing quailty hydrogeologic services to all. God bless all, Dan and Nell.
May 11, 2012 Our daughter Kelly graduated with honors from Troy University today with a BS in Elementary Education (K-6th). Well done Kelly! We love you very much, mom and dad.
April 25, 2012 Sound Advice While compiling well information on a research project, I came across this, see below, scribbled on the margins of a well record. Seems to be good advice now as much as it was in 1987.
April 17, 2012 OAI releases video of simultaneous aquifer tests conducted on two industrial supply wells. The wells were set to produce at the rate of 1,001 gpm each (2.88+ mgd) and were tested to check on how they were holding up after one year in operation. The video shows the wells' discharge point then pans back toward the wellheads. The wells in question are spaced at 71 feet horizontally and produce from two hydraulically seperate aquifers. To see the video, click here.
April 11, 2012 OAI welcomes MCB Water Authority as our 39th public water supply client. OAI will work with MCB' Chairman Freddie Barnes and their engineer Walter "Scotty" Scott of Millenium Technologies on the system's second well. MCB Water Authoirty is a small rural water system serving east central Mobile County, Alabama. Welcome aboard MCB!
March 26, 2012 OAI issues the Cone of Depression flyer. As a continuation of O'Donnell & Associates, Inc.'s public outreach effort, this month's topic is the ever elusive and mysterious "Cone of Depression". If you are not on the OAI Flyer distribution list and would like to receive your copy of the Cone of Depression flyer, send a request to groundwater@oaiwater.com and put Cone of Depression in the subject box.
February 17, 2012 OAI is retained by Millennium Technologies, Inc. for hydrogeologic services associated with a new public water supply well. Millennium's Walter "Scotty" Scott, PE worked with OAI on a number of successful groundwater development projects across southwest Alabama while employed with other firms. For this first project with Millenniumand, OAI was asked to evaluated and rate pre-selected drilling locations for their potential to be developed as sources of public supply. Seven aquifers were identified underlying the sites with pros and cons identified for each aquifer and a recommendation was made for most favorable site and most promising aquifer to target.
February 16, 2012 OAI releases issue paper "The Potentiometric Surface" to help explain this commonly used but more often misunderstood term. To get your copy, send an email with The Potentiometric Surface in the subject box. If you have a question or would like more information on a geologic term, send that question is nas well to: groundwater@oaiwater.com
February 10, 2012 David Head, Sr. RIP
Read today where David died. Back in 1994 when he was developing "Blue Heron" which later was renamed The Peninsula, David needed water and had been told by the experts that groundwater was not an option due to saltwater intrusion. Hearing his dilemma, I asked to meet with him and laid out a plan of research, testing and exploration for groundwater underlying his site. David believed in me and thus I got my first groundwater development project. The research paid off for The Peninsula with the development of a 350 gpm "on island" freshwater well, the first well permitted under the new Coastal Regulation governing groundwater extraction. The first well was followed two years later with a 500 gpm well in the same aquifer with these two wells becoming the first permitted (and only to this date) Coastal Zone wellfield. The rest, as they say, is history. Thanks David for your trust and believing in my ideas back in 1994.
Both wells continue to operate as planned and now OAI has become the leading provider of hydrogeologic services in the Gulf Coast area helping others with research, exploration, development and management of their groundwater resources. If the "experts" tell you no, give OAI a call and we'll see what we can do for you.
Hello 2012
2011
December 2011 Happy Birthday MCW's Boykin Road Well (Well #8) Mobile County Water, Sewer and Fire Protection Authority's Boykin Road Wells is the first well sited by OAI for the water syste,. The hydrogeology was completed by OAI's Dan O'Donnell and was included in MCW's Wellhead Protection Plan Dan completed for the system. The well tested out at 1,900 gpm and was permitted for 1,000 gpm. Ten years on the Boykin Road Well continues to be the system's best well both production and water wise.
October 2, 2011 Great visit with our son Daniel as he stopped in at Fort Benning for a brief layover on his way home to El Paso after a five month tour of duty in Afghanistan. Thanks for all your prayers on Daniel's behalf and let's keep praying for a safe return of all our military.
September 28, 2011 After an absence of nine years to a competitor, a client has returned to the OAI family. After a meeting to discuss issues that, if not handled correctly, could ultimately lead to shutting down the town well, OAI was tasked with a full review of the situation and charged with developing options for this system to consider for addressing their dire situation. With a tight schedule of one week, OAI came through three days early with three potential options. Work is progressing on two fronts with a final decision on which option to fully implement to be made in about two to three weeks. Although we would have preferred they never left, we are glad you are back in the OAI family and will, as always, work to solve their groundwater issues in the most cost-effective manner.
August 2011 OAI worked with a long time client's home office on three pumping tests to determine aquifer hydraulic characteristics. Each of these projects involved analyzing client provided pumping test data, determining aquifer properties of transmissivity, the coefficinet of storage and theoretical maximum production potential for the well.
August 10, 2011 OAI's well supplies new Dauphin Island water treatment plant reported in the Mobile Register today, see http://blog.al.com/live/2011/08/dauphin_island_boasts_new_wate.html. The well tested out at 1,800 gpm and is permitted for 1,200 gpm.
August 4, 2011 Daniel and Krystin O'Donnell's first child, Daniel J. O'Donnell, III, was born today at 03:17 Mountain time at Fort Bliss in El Paso Texas. "Trip", see below, is our first grandchild and we are thrilled. Daniel called from Afghanistan to let us know Trip was set to arrive and Dick Coldwell, Krystin's dad called with the news of the birth. Both mom and baby are doing fine and we thank God for that. Thanks and God bless you both Daniel and Krystin. Nell and I look forward to holding your new baby.
Grandpa Dan loves little Trip
July 25, 2011 Since forming in 1999, OAI has worked with water systems, engineering firms, industry and irrigators to develop wells with a combined production capacity of 50+ million gallons of water per day. This year alone we are working on four well projects that will increase the 50+ million gallon total by another 5.1+ million gallons per day.
July 4th Enjoy the 4th with your families but say a prayer for our Troops. Here's a link to Archbishop Rodi's 4th of July article: http://www.mobilearchdiocese.org/templates/readtjrarticles.cfm?Article=RodiArticle73.htm
The grilling is fine, happy Fourth of July from OAI!
June 10, 2011 OAI Loggers help out on aquifer test. OAI's rental loggers were "instrumental" in the acquisition of water level data on recent testing for a Daphne Alabama production well. The data loggers recorded pre-test, test and post-test data on the required 24/6 hour step rate aquifer test required as part of the permitting process. If you have an important aquifer or pumping test coming up, contact OAI to set up a very competitive logger rental package that provides you the data needed to make the right decision. We also provide analysis of the test data if needed.
June 9, 2011 New bore looks good. OAI just finish geologically logging a 995 foot test bore in Washington County Alabama with all indications the test site is favorable for being developed with a new high volume public supply well. OAI's hydrogeologic review helped in identifying this test site. To date, OAI has geologically logged 10,797 feet of public supply and industrial supply wells in Washington County.
Just as important to geologic logging, geophysical logging is a critical tool that allows for a complete evaluation of the subsurface formations penetrated by the drill bit. Geophysical logs are run on the open borehole after drilling reaches total depth. In the photo below, the e-log of the test bore geologically logged by OAI shows that the aquifer present at a depth of 238 to 290 feet is clean (i.e. no clay layers) with resistivity curves indicating that it contains fresh water. The combination of geologic and geophysical logs ensures that the aquifer with the best potential for development can be targeted for testing. Exploratory bores completed without the benefit of a hydrogeologic review before drilling and the wellsites services of geologic and geophysical logging during and after drilling can be and usually are a waste of time, money and effort (aka a dry hole).
June 6th OAI opens new field office, see below. OAI's new Washington County field office is located just off Highway 43 at the intersection of Toinette Road. The office was set up to provide support services to drilling operations associated with Washington County Water's exploration program. The field office will be staffed full time during drilling operations by Dan. On site activities include catching and describing lagged samples, recording the lithology and monitoring drilling operations. At total depth, OAI will monitor geophysical logging and make recomendations on which aquifers to target for development.
The drought cometh is your System prepared?
May 28, 2011 DROUGHT Once again the southern 2/3rds of Alabama, coastal Mississippi and the Florida panhandle are in the midst of the third (or fourth??) drought in the last eleven years. As of today, the Mobile area is running about 15.96 inches behind normal with area lawns brown, crunchy and in need of dusting. Some area towns, see photo above, have begun asking consumers to conserve with others implementing even/odd watering restrictions. Both measures lead to a reduction in sales (i.e. revenue) for the systems. If your system is considering conservation measures or water restrictions due to the drought, please also consider making a call to OAI. We can't make it rain but we can assess your groundwater assets and identify measures that may allow you to maintain your sales. Economically, times are tough so why add decreased revenue to the mix. During the Drought of 2007, OAI identified a solution for one south Alabama system that allowed them the option of foregoing development of a new 1,400 foot deep ell in favor of a $50,000 fix to their existing infrastructure and a return to their pre-drought water use policy. So if this drought has you worried, call OAI today and let OAI work to keep you in the water sales business. OAI 251-510-9355 anytime.
May 24, 20111 OAI Analysis Requested on Pumping Test Data. OAI's input was requested and delivered on the analysis of data from pumping tests completed on two Mississippi test wells. The data was reviewed and an opinion delivered on the feasibility of developing high volume public supply wells. One got a thumbs up and the other's data was not favorable for developing a well at the production rate sought.
May 18, 2011 Facebook That's right, Dan joined Facebook. Kelly set it up so he could converse with Daniel who is at Camp Dwyer in Afghanistan. He doesn't know how it works so be patient please...
May 8, 2011 Kandahar, Afghanistan Our son Daniel landed in Kandahar today in route to Camp Dwyer for a six month deployment. He will be serving as an army critical care nurse in the hospital at Camp Dwyer.
April 26, 2011 Once upon a time a small municipal water system began planning that would ultimately change them from a "purchased" water system to a system fully in control of their water resource. Their quest began with a call to OAI, the leading groundwater resources development firm in the Central Gulf Coast area. OAI met with them and listened to their needs. OAI then provided them with a tour of several public groundwater systems in the area which OAI worked to develop. The typical comments "I had no idea how efficient a groundwater system is" or "That's the full extent of the treatment/production infrastructure?" rang true once again. OAI then presented them with a carefully thought out research and exploration program to fully develop their own groundwater supplied water system. The project progressed as planned and a groundwater supply necessary to meet their system's demand was brought on line. Today, April 26th, the ribbon cutting was completed and all lived happily ever after.
The above fairy tale need not remain simply a fairy tale. If you are a Mayor, Board Chairman or person with the responsibility of your system's water resources and would like to say good bye to purchasing your water needs, do yourself a favor and contact OAI. Perhaps we can provide you with an option, your own source, that you have wanted but were told was not practical. The fact of the matter is that it may be more practical than you ever imagined.
Develop your own water source and you control the revenue stream. It’s that simple. By developing your source of supply, you control the water and the revenue that selling the water brings. Poorly run, a city/system owned utility that controls its own source generates revenue. Run properly, it generates a lot of revenue. It all starts with a vision, a step of faith and a phone call, so make that call today 251-478-9939 office or 251-510-9355 any time. We are waiting to hear from you.
April 15, 2011 And they said it couldn’t be done! With the possibility of the end of an 11-year tradition hanging in the balance due to my brother Tom "Mr. French Fry" O'Donnell moving away, Dan* accepted the formidable task of taking on the French Fry cook position, see small photo below, that Tom mastered over many years. Lo and behold, the 12th Annual St. Pius X Church Lenten Fish Fries run by K of C Council #13085 went off like clock work.
*I had eleven years of French Fry apprenticeship under Mr. Tom's careful direction, so don't try this at home without similar experience. You have been warned.
 Note: Really small photo provided by Griffin
March 19, 2011 Year One Completed. Information provided by the logger in OAI's MW-2 shows that groundwater reaches maximum temperature in October and reaches its lowest temperature in March. The high temp, 22.68 degrees Celsius (C) (72.82 F), was recorded at 4PM on October 11, 2011. The low temp, 16.50 C(61.70 F), was recorded at 2PM on March 12, 2010. The water level plot resembles that recorded earlier between 2007 and 2009 with fluctuations due to significant precipitation events. The plot of the last year's data is seen below.
Question: Does OAI "do" environmental work? That's a very good question and we'd like to take this opportunity to address it. While we do not market the "environmental" realm of the hydrogeologic field, that being UST, AST, hazardous/non-hazardous chemical releases and such, we are trained and have extensive experience in these areas. We do provide services in these areas on projects from time to time for our existing clients and new clients that have found themselves with ongoing and troublesome projects that seem to have no end in sight. Each of OAI's environmental projects start with a thorough review of work completed to date to identify potential actions taken that can lead to bigger problems than the initial release itself. For example: Your site had a release of 20 gallons of unleaded gasoline to a shallow aquifer 30 feet thick with a water table at 10 feet. A 25 foot thick clay underlies the shallow aquifer and then another 40 foot thick aquifer underlies the clay. More often than not, an investigation of this release would before long include drilling through the underlying clay, setting a deep monitoring well and "finding" that the lower aquifer is contaminated. OAI simply asks: "Why was this action taken and What is the cause of the contaminated lower aquifer?" These are two critical and costly questions that can entangle you with years of expense and heartache over something that was and should have remained a minor problem limited only to the upper aquifer. If this is the type of "environmental problem" you have, it's the kind of environmental problem we "do". Give us a call and let's sit down, review your particular situation and work together to resolve your problem not make it worse. If you are looking at an environmental problem and haven't contracted out the work, give OAI a call and spare yourself the headache mistakes can make.
February 14, 2011 It pays to know. A local water Board was shown the benefit of their groundwater level monitoring program with a presentation on the "before and after" of their program. The program, initiated in 2005, paid off for them in 2009 when they were in need of a new well to meet demand. The data showed their aquifer was in balance and capable of supplying another well. Testing confirmed there were no hidden problems and a second well was added. The presentation tonight confirmed that the aquifer has not been over stressed by the addition of the new well. Savings to the system included: no land purchase, minimal piping costs as the wells are at the water tower, no test well costs (we went straight to the production well) and best of all no dry hole costs.
January 10, 2011 War Eagle! Auburn University wraps up another perfect football season with the BCS National Championship. No brag, just fact.
January 1, 2011 We at OAI are glad to be here and look forward to another year of providing our clients the quality hydrogeologic services they have come to know and expect from us.
2010
December 25, 2010 Merry Christmas to you and your's from OAI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDeXUvWbLp8&feature=related
November 17, 2010-Received an early birthday gift from Daniel and Krystin today. Thanks to the both of you.
November 11, 2010 - Thank a Veteran Today, as in every preceding Veterans Day, OAI stops to say thank you to those that serve or have served this country in the armed forces. In doing so, a friend sent me the following link and we wanted to share it with you: http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=KTb6qdPu8JE
As the bumper sticker says: If you can read, thank a teacher. If you can read in English, thank a Veteran.
October 7, 2010 - Groundwater Management Question Groundwater management should be a vital part of any groundwater system. Yesterday, while visiting with a system manager the following question came up "Where should the observation well be placed for a monitoring program"? This is a good question and, as in most things, the answer is "It depends".
Since 1995, public supply wells in Alabama require an observation well as part of the permitting process. As this observation well is already in place (and paid for) and it is generally within the fenced, secured area of the new well, OAI uses this well as the monitoring point. This reduces the expense of another well and, even more importantly, reduces an un-necessary vulnerability point and possibly even another artificial penetration of protective clays overlying the producing aquifer. Where as the completion of a new observation well for monitoring purposes increases costs, adds a potential high risk sourcewater threat and may lead to further penetrations of protective clays.
To the question: "What about interference from pumping?" we say that is what you are wanting to monitor so why not monitor at the point of critical impact? The interference seen in the vicinity of the well is what is critical to evaluating the health of the aquifer. By monitoring away from interference effects of the production well, critical water level data on what is actually going on at the well may be lost.
So, when setting up a monitoring program, if money, aquifer protection and further reduction in protection of overlying clays doesn't matter, go ahead and drill a new observation well away from the production well. However, OAI suggests using what is already available at the wellsite which saves money, reduces security issues, eliminates additional penetrations of protective clay layers and provides the "at well" data you need to manage your water resources. To set-up as cost effective, secure monitoring program, contact OAI. The money you save is yours to keep.
September 1, 2010 Need a new well? Times are tough and money is tight. So if you are planning to complete a new well for your water system, we have a new article for you entitled "Who ya gonna call?" The article gives two casebook examples of how OAI worked with two clients to solve their water needs. Perhaps your system could benefit from a hydrogeologic review to determine whether or not you actually need a new well or simply a modification to your existing infrastructure.
If you are a utility manager, an engineer or a plant manager and need help with your water supply, where ever you may be, give OAI a call and together we'll see whether OAI can make a difference for your project. We travel, so don't let the distance between your location and our location stand in the way of solving your water needs. Make that call today (251-478-9939).
July 4, 2010-Happy 4th of July We had a great 4th with friends and some of Miss Nell's homecooked ribs, photo below. I can't wait 'til the next aquifer test as I picked up a new idea for the 6-hour food break. The pump is on at 06:00 and supper's served at 12:00. Ready, set, go.
May 17, 2010-Graduation Our son Sam graduated from Murphy High School today. Sam will enter seminary in the fall at St. John Vianney in St. Paul Minnesota. Congratulations Sam!
May 11, 2010-Industrial Wellfield Completed What began with a consultation visit in December 2008 was finalized with the delivery of the Wellfield Report for and surface completion of a multi-well, multi-aquifer industrial supply wellfield, photo below. From researching and identifying potential aquifers and locating favorable wellsites through testing the aquifers for hydraulic performance and water quality to completion of the two production wells, OAI worked diligently with the client and the drilling contractor to bring about a successful conclusion to this project. The wellfield's two wells are spaced at 71 feet horizontally and produce from aquifers separated vertically by 150 feet of clay. The wellfield has the capability of delivering 4.32 million gallons per day but will produce at the rate of 2.16 million gallons per day. The aquifers underlying the site have an ultimate potential of producing as much as 12.96 million gallons per day.
Well PW-1, foreground, produces from the Moore #3 Aquifer and Well PW-2 produces from the Moore #2 Aquifer. A third aquifer, the Moore #1, is present and available for development at this site. Photo courtesy of Griner Drilling Service, Inc.
May 6, 2010-Hydrogeologic Study Completed Delivered a hydrogeologic study today to a public water system that identified six aquifers, five of which have the potential to be developed as sources of public supply. Among the five aquifers, two are currently used as a source of public supply and three have been used for drinking water or industrial supply purposes. The study identified favorable drilling locations, provided target drilling depth and located wells that can be sampled to provide preliminary information of the water quality for the aquifers under consideration. The next phase of this project involves implementing the recommendations to evaluate the aquifers' potential to be developed as a source of public supply.
April 26, 2010-OAI re-locates to new office On April 26th, we opened our new office at 600 Bel Air Boulevard, Suite 130 in Mobile, Alabama. The office is located 0.43 miles south of Airport Blvd. on the right (west side) of Bel Air. Please stop in next time you are in the area. Also please update your records to note our new address:
O'Donnell & Associates, Inc.
600 Bel Air Blvd., Suite 130
Mobile, Alabama 36606
ph: 251-478-9939
March 30, 2010-Welcome Washington County Commission The Washington County Commission joins the OAI family as our newest client. OAI will be providing hydrogeologic services associated with permitting a 60,000 gallons per day de-centralized wastewater treatment facility in the McIntosh, Alabama area. This is the latest of 24 such de-centralized plants OAI has permitted in Alabama.
March 13, 2010-Happy St. Patrick's Day Enjoyed a wonderful weekend in New Orleans for St. Patrick's Day. Marching in the Irish Channel Parade for the first time was my son Sam along with his brother Daniel and his uncle Jim. Pictured below (L-R): Kristin Coldwell (Daniel's fiancee), Daniel, Nell, Uncle Jim, Sam and Dan.
2009
December 31, 2009-Goodbye 2009 and Hello 2010 As the economy staggers on, we wish you all a happy and prosperous NEW YEAR!
December 1, 2009-Industrial Wellfield Progress Installation of the first of two production wells at an industrial wellfield began today in Washington County. The wellfield at completion will be capable of 1,500 to 3,000 gallons per minute with the potential to develop a third aquifer as needed.
November 21, 2009-Go Trojans andADP! Enjoyed a visit with my son Daniel and his fiancee' Krystin Coldwell and my daughter Kelly and her friends at Troy University, Troy Alabama. Shown in the picture below is Candice Buckault, Joshua Douglass, Kelly O'Donnell and Elizabeth Rodgers in front of the Alpha Delta Pi sign.
October 18, 2009-All systems go Water samples obtained from test wells in Calvert indicate the site is a go for development of one and possibly two aquifers as demand increases in the future. Extended testing is planned for one of the aquifer that has water on the border line for post production testing before plant size is finalized.
October 1, 2009-Welcome aboard Saraland! On October 1st, the Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners of the City of Saraland retained the hydrogeologic services of OAI to assist them with the exploration and development of a new well or wells. The initial phase of the project is a hydrogeologic study of the Board's service area to identify promising wellsites. OAI thanks Mr. Mike Sullivan, Superintendent and the Board and Mr. Gordon Quesenberry, PE of McCrory and Williams for their confidence in selecting and recommending OAI for this project. Saraland is the 37th Gulf Coast public supply water system to select OAI for their exploration and development project.
September 29, 2009-Calvert Exploration OAI received a contract to assist South Alabama Utilities with an exploration test in the Calvert Community. The project will begin with geologic logging of an exploratory bore and progressed with testing and development of promising aquifers found through the boring effort.
September 18, 2009-Deep Clarke Test Abandoned The deep Clarke County exploration project found the target aquifer as expected but preliminary water samples obtained from the test well indicated that the water would required post-production treatment prior to being suitable for use as a source of public supply. As a result, development of the deep aquifer has been abandoned.
August 10, 2009 Exploration Test Begins Drilling began today on a deep aquifer in Clarke County Alabama, see photo below. The test is the result of OAI's hydrogeologic study of the central Clarke County area that identified the Gravel Creek member of the Nanafalia Formation for possible use as a source of public supply. Drilling is expected to take eight days with the target aquifer expected at a depth of 1,730 feet.
August 6, 2009-OAI in Print The August 2009 issue of the Alabama Geological Society's newsletter contains an article written Dan O'Donnell about a field methods mini-camp he ran in May of 2008. The paper explains how a group of professional geologists doing the same task-a water level survey-came up with a wide variety of data. The article shows how attention to detail is often lacking on one of the most critical parts of a groundwater investigation. You can read the article beginning on page 7 of the newsletter by following this link. Have your employees* properly trained in conducting and interpreting water level surveys at OAI's Gulf Coast Groundwater Research Center. Please call OAI at 251-666-5285 to schedule a training class. A well trained employee is an asset to any firm.
* Training is also available for geology/environmental students looking for practical experience prior to entering the job market.
July 2009-Testing proves out OAI's hydrogeologic study July was a busy month at OAI as fieldwork continued on a proposed industrial supply wellfield, see below. The second of two test wells was installed and testing confirmed a second aquifer underlying the site is satisfactory for use as a source of industrial supply. Planning is ongoing for two production wells. The ultimate production for the two well wellfield should fall in the 1,500 to 3,000 gpm range (2.16 to 4.32 mgpd) with options to increase production with additional wells in the tested aquifers or by tapping an un-tested third aquifer that underlies the site.
July 15, 2009-Groundwater level monitoring pays off On July 15th, a client called to ask us to check our data logger at one of their critical wells. It seems their equipment signaled the well was about to break suction due to excessive drawdown and, as a result, this much needed well was taken out of service. OAI travel to the site and evaluated the data our logger recorded only to find out everything was normal with no excessive drawdown occurring in the aquifer at this well. This critical well was immediately placed back into service. Without having implemented OAI's groundwater level monitoring program at this well, this system could have spent thousands of dollars and had the well out of service only to find out nothing was wrong. Does your system have a groundwater level monitoring program? If not, contact OAI today. The money (and headaches) you save may be your own.
June 23, 2009 R.I.P. Agnes McCullar At 02:43 this morning we received word that Agnes McCullar, Nell's mother, had died. Agnes was a wonderful mother who always had time for her family and grandkids. May her soul rest in peace.
June 11, 2009 Running Casing On June 11th, casing was set for a test well on a project associated with developing an industrial supply wellfield with an upside production rate potential of 1,500 to 3,000 gpm. The test well location was identified through a hydrogeologic study completed by OAI in January of 2009. The primary target aquifer proved out at 145 feet thick and is composed of a mix of sand, fine gravel and gravel. Two additional aquifers were found as expected and await testing. During the casing run, OAI provided "casing burgers" for all those on site, see photo below. Testing will begin soon to determine the aquifer's production potential and water quality.
June 3, 2009-Primary Target Aquifer The target aquifer of an industrial wellfield project was cut today with excellent aquifer material cut over a 145 foot interval. OAI completed a hydrogeologic study to identified the drilling location and wellsite services to catch, examine and record the material cut by the bit. The primary aquifer came in as expected and consisted of sand, fine gravel and gravel, see photo below.
May 19, 2009 Happy Birthday To O'Donnell & Associates, Inc. Today marks our 10th anniversary as a hydrogeologic consulting firm. To all our clients, family and friends who believed in us back in 1999, we are grateful. Looking back over the past 10 years, OAI has made a significant impact on the groundwater community. Here are some facts associated with our efforts in the exploration, development and management of groundwater resources in south Alabama, south Mississippi and the Florida panhandle:
- Since 1999, OAI has developed wells with a combined permitted production capacity of 36,005,760 gallons per day (13.142 billion gallons per year).
- Since 1999, OAI has permitted 39 water supply wells
- Since 1999, OAI has planned, tested, developed and permitted 7 wellfields
- Since 1999, OAI has provided professional services associated with 71 public supply wells
- Since 1999, OAI has geologically logged over 33,000 feet of water well bores
- Since 1999, OAI has completed 69 hydrogeologic studies
- Since 1999, OAI has completed 61 aquifer tests
- Since 1999, OAI has developed 69 groundwater models for sourcewater assessment and capture zone analysis
- Since 1999, OAI has permitted five coastal zone wells and defended not having to permit two other wells under the coastal regulations
- Since 1999, OAI has developed five industrial supply wells
April 28, 2009-Advertising O'Donnell & Associates, Inc. would like to use this opportunity to thank all our clients who have referred their friends to us for hydrogeologic services. Often times these references can lead to just a quick phone call to us about a well issue, an aquifer question or the like. Sometimes the reference can be a substantial lead that develops into a water supply exploration, development or management project. In short, word of mouth referrals have been and remain our main source of advertising. A hint of why our clients refer others to OAI for help in addressing their groundwater resources needs may be found in an e-mail sent to OAI from a regulator at the Alabama Department of Environmental Management candidly speaking of our sourcewater assessment reports. From day one, quality hydrogeologic services for our clients have been our priority.
April 7, 2009-National Honor Society Today brought recognition to our son Sam, left, with his induction into the National Honor Society at Murphy High School (Go Panthers!). Sam and his friends, Lam Pham and Dillan Brewer, are pictured below at the reception following the awards ceremony.
April 2, 2009-Irrigation Success
OAI's best source of advertising is our satisfied clients and for that we are grateful. One such client referred the manager of a local blueberry farming operation to OAI for help in locating an irrigation well after previous efforts were disappointing. OAI accepted the task, did a review of the area's hydrogeology and recommended a drilling depth. The farmer took the recommendation and contracted a local drilling firm to drill to a depth of 250 feet. The target aquifer came in as expected and the well was completed with 30 feet of screen. The well has a good production rate and, once the rain stops falling, the blueberries will be put out...
March 28, 2009
On March 28th, we recorded 7.1 inches of rain over the previous 24-hour period. The groundwater elevation at OAI's MW-2 rose to 16.96 feet in response to the rain event, the highest recorded over the previous two years, see the research link for the graph.
March 14, 2009 R.I.P. Doyle McCullar
We received word today that Doyle McCullar, Nell's father, has died. Doyle was a good father, excellent carpenter and friend of many stray dogs. May he rest in peace.
February 2, 2009-Grove Hill Water Works
OAI welcomes Grove Hill Water Works into our family of water system clients that now numbers 36 systems across southern Alabama, southeast Mississippi and northwest Florida. OAI will complete a hydrogeologic study with the intent of locating a favorable drilling location for their next well.
January 31, 2009
OAI's groundwater level monitoring program has recorded 13,900+ measurements at MW-2 dating back to April 2007, see below. MW-2 is a 13.5 foot deep monitoring well located in a surficial aquifer adjacent to Eslava Creek in Mobile, Alabama. Beginning January 21, 2008, OAI joined the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, see cocorahs.org, and has tracked and posted precipitation data collected at the location of MW-2 on line. Together, the water level data and the precipitation data make for an interesting graph, see below. Notice the correlation between precipitation events and the groundwater elevation recorded at the well. Read more about this effort on OAI's Research page.
Hello 2009!
To all our clients and friends, we wish you a blessed and prosperous new year! We would like to thank all our clients for making 2008 one of our best years with a wide variety of fun, challenging and successful projects. Along the way, we added to our client base: one major engineering firm, three industrial clients, three public water systems and a local nursery. The majority of these new clients are a result of direct referral from satisfied clients.
Accomplishments in 2008 include hydrogeologic services that resulted in the permitting of four municipal wells with a tested production capacity of 5.9 million gallons per day and a permitted capacity of 3.96 million gallons per day. OAI also planned, tested, developed and permitted two new wellfields, a multi-well, multi-aquifer wellfield and a single aquifer multi-well wellfield. We also complete three hydrogeologic studies to assist in the planning, drilling and development of future municipal wells (the OAI way to effectively develop groundwater resources). In another area, our groundwater modeling experience was used to support not having to permit two industrial supply wells under the Coastal Regulations which resulted in a saving of $15,000 to $18,000 for each of two of our industrial clients.
We look forward to 2009 in anticipation as we complete our tenth year in the business of exploration, development and management of groundwater resources for our municipal, industrial, and private sector clients. As the ideas formed on the pages of our studies become your new water supply wells, we have to pause and reflect that it just doesn't get much better than this. Thank you all for your business and support of our firm.
God bless you all and here's to a great 2009.
Dan and Nell O'Donnell
2008
December 28, 2008-Bob Craft-RIP
On December 28, 2008, Mr. Gilbert Robert "Bob" Craft, Executive Director of South Alabama Utilities, passed away. Mr. Craft was a forward thinker who I first met in 2000 while conducting an aquifer test at SAU's Mary Montgomery #1 Well. I have had the privilege of working on many more of SAU's water well projects and always enjoyed Mr. Craft's visits to the job sites. Once while taking Troop 36 Boy Scouts to Mass during a weekend campout in Citronelle, I ran into Mr. Craft and his wife Pat and was complemented on what a fine group of boys our Troop had. He will be missed.
December 1, 2008
Groundwater monitoring efforts at six municipal water supply wells were terminated after 4.5 years of monitoring found no indications the aquifers being monitored were being over produced. The water level data recorded since May of 2004 provides the utilities that owned the wells valuable information on the overall health of their sources of supply and will provide a baseline for future comparison should they consider the possibility of tapping the aquifers with additional wells. Groundwater level monitoring continues at six other sites in aquifers tapped by 12 public water supply wells.
October 20, 2008
Our son Daniel begins his tour of duty at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC. Prior to heading to his first duty assignment, Daniel came through Mobile and assisted in a week of recruiting locally and at his alma mater, Troy University. Go Army.
October 16, 2008
Our son Sam sat for and passed his Eagle Scout Board of Review today. Sam becomes Saint Pius X Catholic Church Troop 36's newest Eagle Scout. Sam's Eagle service project was the construction of a pergola at the Little Sister Home in Mobile, see below. Sam is a junior at Murphy High School where he plays on the "O" line of the Panther Football Team (Go Panthers!) and is active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Sam is also involved with CYO, serves the first Sunday of the month at the 8 AM Mass at the Cathedral. During the summer, Sam is a lifeguard and is employed by Toomey's during Mardi Gras season.
October 14, 2008
Welcome Bayou LaBatre! OAI received a contract to provide wellsite geologic services to Bayou LaBatre Utilities as they begin the process to develop a new water supply well for their system. Geologic logs provide valuable information that can make or break a decision to complete a well. Geologic logs are required for all new public supply wells in Alabama. OAI has 160 hours of formal training in mudlogging, 29 years of "mudlogging " experience and has logged over 37,000 feet of water wells in Alabama's the coastal plain. With the addition of Bayou LaBatre, OAI's public water system client base is now 35 systems. Thank you all.
October 2, 2008
White House Water System, Inc. has retained the services of OAI to complete a hydrogeologic study of their service area. The study will assist in their evaluation to develop their own source of public supply. The hydrogeologic study is an economical exploration tool available through OAI to identify promising wellsites. Using this approach lessens the odds of drilling a costly dry hole.
August 14, 2008
OAI delivers an extensive hydrogeologic study to a Mississippi Gulf Coast water system. As proposed, the hydro study identified area aquifers, assigned production of over 450 wells area to those aquifers and identified several wellsites, some with the potential to be developed as multi-well/multi-aquifer wellfields. Historical data located during the project identified one promising aquifer that was used for public supply in the past but the well was since plugged and forgotten. Of the identified drilling sites, several were on property already owned by the water system.
July 5, 2008
Congratulations to our son Daniel J. O'Donnell, II, RN, who took and passed his nursing boards. Daniel, you've done a wonderful job in school and in passing your boards. Daniel leaves for Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas August 1st and will be assigned to Walter Reed in Washington, DC upon completion of officer training.
June 17, 2008
OAI completed a wellfield screening model to determine whether or not Alabama 's coastal groundwater extraction regulation applies to two wells proposed by our client. The wells will be used for industrial supply. OAI researched the area prepared a screening model to simulate the wells' production and evaluated their capture zones. The modeling indicated the wells' 50-year capture zones would not encroach into the coastal zone. The client was free to proceed as planned with the development of the wellfield without the delay and expense of permitting under the coastal regulation.
June 10, 2008
OAI completed permitting work on a new multi-aquifer/multi-well wellfield. The new well is completed in an aquifer separated vertically from the initial well's aquifer by 75 feet of clay. The new well's production rate is set at 700 gallons per minute boosting site production to 1,200 gallons per minute (~1.73 million gallons per day). Development of the deeper aquifer at this location reduced development costs associated with piping and treatment and eliminated costs associated with land purchase. The two wells are approximately 65 feet apart horizontally, see below. Well #1, background, was completed in 2000 with Well #2, foreground, completed in April of 2008. This is the fifth public water supply wellfield planned, tested, developed and permitted by O'Donnell & Associates, Inc.
June 6, 2008
OAI received a call and subsequently a contract from this industrial client to complete a screening evaluation of whether or not a coastal groundwater extraction permit was required for their proposed 250 gallons per minute well. Timing was critical, so the work progressed over the course of the weekend with the client getting the report as promised on Monday morning. OAI's evaluation combined our local knowledge of the aquifer with historic field data and an analytic element model to assess the proposed well's capture zone. To the relief of the our client, modeling established that a coastal permit was not required so that the well installation could proceed without delay. Client savings are estimated at $15,000 to $18,000 without the months of delay associated with permitting the well. Once again, OAI put geology to work for another satisfied client.
June 4, 2008
OAI's Dan O'Donnell gave a presentation at the annual ADEM Groundwater conference in Montgomery on June 4, 2008. Dan's topic "A water level survey, what does the data show" put the spotlight on a "typical" task that gets little scrutiny. He covered the particulars of completing a groundwater level survey correctly, what the data showed and and discussed critical points of the survey that are important for getting the data accurately and presenting the results correctly. This presentation is applicable to all groundwater studies.
May 20, 2008
OAI hosted a field methods mini-camp covering well surveying, water level surveying, potentiometric surface map preparation with critique, discussion and a grillout. The Alabama and Mississippi PG Boards authorized 3 PDH credits for those attending.
May 19, 2008
Our daughter Kelly graduated from Murphy High School today. Kelly enters Troy University this fall where she will study Elementary Education. Congratulations Kelly, love Mom and Dad.
May 19, 2008
OAI completes its ninth year in business today. We thank all those who have helped us achieve our goal of providing quality hydrogeologic services to utilities, industry and irrigators. We are especially thankful for our clients and your continued trust in our services. As we move forward into our tenth year, we continue to give thanks to God for all the blessings he has provided OAI in our work for you.
May 9, 2008
Our son Daniel graduated Magnum Cum Laude from Troy University with a BS in Nursing today. Daniel will be commissioned in the Army's Nursing Corps as a Second Lieutenant on August 3rd reporting to Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio Texas for training. In October, Daniel will be re-stationed to Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC. Congratulations Daniel for a job well done and thank you for serving our country, love Mom and Dad.
April 8, 2008-High Volume Well Permitted
Success once again. OAI's sourcewater assessment report was accepted as submitted for yet another high volume public water supply well. This well tested out a 1,950 gpm and was permitted for 1,300 gpm (1.8 mgd). This wellsite has a strong potential for development as a multi-aquifer wellfield with monitoring ongoing.
March 7, 2008-Alabama Conference of Black Mayors
OAI gave a presentation at the annual meeting of the Alabama Conference of Black Mayors in Selma, Alabama on March 7th, the 43rd anniversary of Bloody Sunday. The presentation outlined the benefits of implementing OAI's hydrogeologic approach to the exploration, development and management of groundwater resources. The presentation provided case studies of projects that used OAI's hydrogeologic approach before, during and after the well is drilled showing how this approach is critical to the efficient exploration and development of groundwater resources. OAI thanks Mayor Ron Davis (Prichard) for the invitation to speak and the Conference for having OAI as part of their program.
March 5, 2008
OAI coordinates a school field trip to Mobile County Water's Well #1, see the Teaching Hydrogeology link under the Photos page of OAI's website.
January 21, 2008-Welcome Malcolm Pirnie
On January 21, 2008, Malcolm Pirnie, Inc. became the 14th engineering firm to contract with OAI for hydrogeologic services. This project consisted of historic research of the project area's high volume irrigation wells and the identification of area aquifers through the development of hydrogeologic cross sections in a sub-regional area in southwest Alabama. The project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.
January 21, 2008-Let it rain
OAI joins COCORAHS! Today OAI joined the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. Each morning the precipitation at the Gulf Coast Groundwater Research facility, station number al-mb-49, is logged in to the COCORAHS network and is available for all to see on the net. Please consider joining this volunteer network of precipitation monitoring. For information on joining, please visit cocorahs.org
January 18, 2008
Tired of reading bad news? Well, Mike Odom of the Fairhope Courrier published a great story today which may well be worth your time if a new water well is in your future. The story discusses the recently completed well OAI sited for the City of Fairhope. For more info on this well, see the August 7, 2007 post below. Thanks Mike for a well done article and thanks to the City of Fairhope for your continued trust in OAI's work.
Hello 2008!
May all our clients, friends and family have a great year. With the close of 2007, OAI would like to thank each existing and all our new clients for their continued confidence in OAI and the services we provide. The year was exceptional in that we added to our client base with the addition of two water systems and one engineering firm. We are happy to add that these new water system clients were referred to OAI by satisfied existing clients.
Accomplishments this past year include development of public supply wells capable of producing 4.89 mgd, completion of several hydrogeologic studies to identify future well sites, investigations of declining water levels and leaks and screening select sites for wellfield possibilities. All the while, continuing to provide our standard fair of hydrogeologic services.
We look forward to another exciting year as our studies completed last year move from the pages of our studies to the drilling, completion and permitting phases.
If you need to expand, assess or monitor your groundwater resources, please give OAI a call. We will work to efficiently meet your needs.
Thanks,
Nell and Dan
2007
December 26, 2007-Goodbye old friend
Sad day today as we lost our beloved dog, Kramer. This $35 flea market dog was a member of our family for the past 14.5 years. Known in some government circles as a "tri-colored mix with droopy ears"; to those that knew him best he was simply a "good dog". He was a trooper keeping crime and neighborhood squirrels at bay and, in later years, was better than any million dollar "dual-doppler" weather station in picking up approaching storms. Kramer RIP.
November 2007 - PWS Well Production Exceeds 1,900 gpm
A new public water supply well recently tested out at 1,950 gpm and will be permitted for 1,300 gpm (1.8+ mgd). The well is completed in a sand aquifer that OAI has mapped across Mobile County. The aquifer testing confirmed the aquifer as mapped by OAI through drawdown measuring 1.12 feet in another of the system's PWS wells 7,000 feet to the northwest. The new well should be online in March of 2008.
September 13, 2007-Tom Prickett RIP
On September 13, 2007, Tom Prickett passed away. I first met Tom while attending Oklahoma State University's Hydrogeology program in the summer of 1990. Tom was the instructor teaching the groundwater Modeling portion of the program. Under his instruction, three other ex-oilies and myself learned modeling fundamentals, "formed" a company, Extract-A-Plume, Inc., and used Tom's models Random Walk and PLASM to evaluate the migration and capture of a TCE plume at a fictitious landfill. Although Extract-A-Plume received a score of 91 on our effort, we learned a great deal more than score of 91 reflected. Tom was always available for 'rap sessions' on a variety of groundwater topics and questions.
Years later, our paths crossed again and we took up where we left off with e-mail correspondence on groundwater topics and general how ya doings. Tom visited the Gulf Coast from time to time and had a standing invitation to speak to the Southwest Alabama Geological Society if he was in the area. Unfortunately, the talk never happened.
To learn more about Tom, please visit: http://ngwa.org/hottopics/pricketttribute.aspx
So long Tom, I'll miss rapping with you...dod
September 3, 2007-Discovery update
Analysis of water obtained from the aquifer announced as a new discovery by OAI on May 15, 2007, see below, indicates the water is well suited for use as a source of public supply and is of exceptional quality (pH is 7.85). Based on OAI's experience, this 94-foot thick aquifer should be capable of producing in the 1,500 to 2,200 gpm range (2.16 to 3.16 million gallons per day). Planning for the production well is in progress.
2nd Coastal Extraction Extension Received
One of OAI's coastal irrigation clients recently received a 2nd extension of their groundwater extraction permit. Their well, orginally permitted in 2001 for 500 gpm, is located in an area in an area "written off" as being incapable of producing fresh water due to saltwater encroachment. Six years later, this 500 gpm well continues to produce fresh water for irrigation purposes as OAI's research indicated it would. At another of OAI coastal client's facility, two high volume wells continue to produce 10 and 12 years after first being permitted by Dan O'Donnell. Research pays as evidenced by these three coastal wells' combined 28 years of fresh water production.
Groundwater Level Monitoring Network Grows to Include Seven Systems
A west Alabama water system is the seventh water system to join OAI's groundwater level monitoring network. Each of these seven systems use this program to aid in the management of their groundwater resource. The new system's well taps the Nanafalia Aquifer, a regional aquifer supplying six other public supply wells in the area. As of this addition, OAI is monitoring water levels in ten Coastal Plain aquifers supplying 37+ public supply wells. To join this pro-active monitoring network, contact OAI by e-mail at groundwater@oaiwater.com Please visit our Water Resources page and follow the Management link to learn more about the benefits of this management program.
New Public Supply Well tests out at 1,500 gpm (August 7, 2007)
A new public supply well hydrogeologically located (ie. OAI put the "X" on the ground) by OAI recently tested out at 1,500 gpm and will be permitted for 1,000 gpm. This new well was completed with no "test well" or "dry hole" costs to the utility. Using OAI's exploration and development process, we have now completed four new public supply wells for this system without a single test well or dry hole. These four wells have a combined permitted production capacity of 3,350 gpm (4.8 million gallons per day). How does this compare to your groundwater exploration and development program? If your answer is "Not to good", we look forward to hearing from you...
Groundwater Level Monitoring on the "net"
OAI's MW-2 is part of OAI's groundwater level monitoring network of public and private wells across southwest Alabama. MW-2 is located just south of Eslava Creek in Mobile, Alabama (USA). The well is 13 feet deep and water level in the well is recorded at various intervals. A current plot of the water level data is posted on OAI's research page.
Conservation Alert?
Recent newspaper articles across southwest Alabama are reporting on conservation efforts being implemented by various water systems to combat the effects of the current drought. While conservation has its place, OAI believes a strong groundwater exploration, development and management program can position groundwater systems to "weather" adverse climate conditions. If you have been advised that conservation is the only answer to drought, perhaps it's time to re-consider your options. Call to find out more about how OAI keeps our clients in the green.
May 15, 2007-New discovery!
Test drilling confirmed the presence of another major aquifer located through hydrogeologic research completed by OAI. Current testing on this previously unknown aquifer is underway to evaluate the aquifer's water quality and gather preliminary hydraulic data. If testing proves the aquifer suitable for use as a source of public supply our client's water situation is set for years to come (i.e. no more worrying about where they will go to meet growing demand). With drought conditions continuing across the southeast, why not work smarter for solutions to your pressing water supply needs by thinking outside the box? Since utilizing OAI's proven methods of exploration and development, this client has gone without a single "dry hole" in their last four well efforts dating back to 1999 and things look great for a successful number five!
Welcome to Florida!
OAI recently received contracts on two Florida water supply projects. The first project was groundwater modeling to evaluate well interference before well drilling began for an irrigation wellfield. The second was a groundwater prospecting project for a public water system in need of expanding their source of supply. With these two jobs, OAI now has established its presence in Alabama, Mississippi and Florida.
Goodbye 2006, Hello 2007
As 2006 winds down, we would like to thank our clients for the trust and confidence they placed in us over the past year. In 2006, OAI was very active in developing additional groundwater resources completing six public supply wells and three industrial wells. Together, these nine wells resulted in a total production increase of 10.8 million gallons per day for our clients. In choosing to "put geology to work" by selecting OAI, our clients know that making the "right" decision rather than just making "a decision" with respect to their water resource is the key to success.
As we look forward to 2007, the future is promising as area growth fuels the need for expanding water supplies. Through research and planning, we will continue to "put geology to work" for our clients moving them away from "dry hole" exploration programs of the past to OAI's efficient and effective hydrogeologic groundwater exploration program that developed 10.8 million gallons of water per day for our clients in 2006.
Does 2007 bring the challenge of adding a new well to your system? If so and this decision is on your shoulders, don't just make "a decision", make the "right decision " by calling OAI. OAI, as our track record shows, provides the information necessary to make your decision the "right decision". The earlier OAI gets involved, the greater the benefit you and your customers receive.
Again, thanks to our existng clients for your continued trust and confidence in our firm. To those who are considering our firm, a gracious welcome and know that you will receive the same dedicated, professional and personal service that is the foundation of our firm.
Dan and Nell O'Donnell
2006
Groundwater Management
In 2004, OAI received a grant to implement a groundwater level monitoring program in aquifers tapped by 13 public supply wells in Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Since initiation of this project, OAI has expanded the project. Currently, OAI is monitoring groundwater levels in aquifers supplying 20 public supply wells. OAI's groundwater level monitoring program is easy to set up, cost effective and will provide data systems can use to evaluate the "heath" of their aquifers (their source of supply) over time. Call OAI today (251-666-5285) to learn how OAI can get started on this most critical but often overlooked part of your overall groundwater management plan.
Droughts and Aquifers
Has anybody else noticed the lack of precipitation over the past few months? We at OAI have. However, our clients shouldn't be alarmed. One of the benefits of aquifers is that they not only transmit water, they store water. As recently as the drought of 2000-2001, OAI's client groundwater systems weathered the drought nicely. On the other hand, water systems that rely on "surface water" as their source of supply can experience tremendous stress when there is any significant decrease in local precipitation. The reason for this revolves around the source for the surface water impoundment (i.e. lake). In most cases, this source is from the local surficial aquifer that borders and underlies the lake. In some cases, the surficial aquifer may actually account for 80% of the lake's water. In time of local drought, the surficial aquifer does not receive recharge so there is a corresponding decrease in its discharge to the lake. The longer the drought, the greater the decrease in the aquifer's discharge to the lake.
For most of OAI's client systems, the source of their water is regional aquifers. These aquifers are generally more extensive than surficial aquifers and, due to their tremendous storage capacity, they can weather droughts without significant problems, see Well #6 data. So relax and enjoy a break from your weekly lawn mowing chores. Relax that is unless you depend on surface water as your source of supply.
Coastal Well Success
Dauphin Island Water and Sewer Authority's Well #6 recently received its coastal permit as a new high volume (1,200 gpm) public water supply well through the efforts of OAI. OAI's research identified a deep aquifer that, due in part to advanced technology, was a potential source of treatable water for public supply purposes. Based on OAI's research and planning, the target aquifer was drilled, tested and found acceptable for use in DIWSA's planned RO post-production treatment process. OAI would like to than Mr. Jeff Caldwell and the entire Board for the confidence in OAI on this project.
If you are planning to install a groundwater extraction well in the coastal area of Alabama, consider putting OAI's extensive experience with coastal zone permitting to work for you.
March 2006 Discovery Permitted (September 2006)
The Baldwin County discovery, announced in March 2006, see below, tested out at 2,255 gpm and will be permitted with a production capacity of 1,500 gpm (2.16 million gallons per day). This well is the result of a hydrogeologic exploration program completed for the system by OAI and it is the second consecutive well completed for this system under OAI's direction without a dry hole. The combine permitted capacity of these two successful wells is 3.24 million gallons per day.
New Discovery Announced (March 2006)
A groundwater exploration project by OAI has led to the discovery of a new untapped aquifer in Baldwin County. Initial testing indicates the aquifer's water quality is exceptionally good requiring no significant post production treatment. Capacity testing indicates the well's peak production topped 2,200 gpm and the well will be permitted for 1,500 to 1,600 gpm. This was OAI's second groundwater exploration project for the water system. Both projects, completed in different areas of the system's distribution network, were completed without "dry holes" or their related expense and time delays.
The days of $25,000 for a completed public supply well have gone the way of the nickel candy bar. OAI's hydrogeologic approach uses a sound exploration method to reduce the chance of "dry holes". If you are considering a new well, you owe it to your consumers to maximized their system's finances. OAI can help you do just that.
Goodbye 2005, Hello 2006
As 2005 comes to a close, we would like to thank all our loyal clients for placing your trust in OAI for your water supply needs. Without you we wouldn't be here. Together with you, we have worked to explore, develop and permit new groundwater water resources for industrial, irrigation and public supply purposes and we have sited our 15th de-centralized wastewater treatment facility.
If your system/business is considering bringing a new well on-line in 2006 or if you would like to discuss the benefits of adding de-centralized wastewater treatment to your wastewater treatment program, we would welcome the opportunity to meet with you, discuss your plans and show how OAI can make those plans a reality in the most cost efficient manner possible.
Again, thank you and may 2006 bring you many blessings.
Nell and Dan O'Donnell
2005
OAI to speak at National Ground Water Expo
OAI will travel to Cobb County Georgia on December 13-16, 2005 to give a presentation entitled "Wellhead Protection: A Tool for Groundwater Exploration". The presentation is a case study of how a rural PWS used the hydrogeologic study OAI's Dan O'Donnell completed for their Wellhead Protection Plan in search for a new water supply source. The hydrogeology showed where to drill for an aquifer with known water quality. The well was drilled with the target aquifer found as mapped three years earlier. The well was completed as the system's most productive well and it was recognized in 2005 as having the best tasting water in Alabama, see below. To paraphrase Capital One: What's in Your Wellhead Protection Plan?
OAI to give oral presentation at the Alabama Water Resources Conference
OAI will be giving an oral presentation entitled "Petroleum Exploration, Can Oil and Water Mix?". The presentation will be given at the 2005 AWR Conference in Orange Beach on September 8-9, 2005. Update: This conference was postponed until October 12-14 due to Hurricane Katrina.
OAI speaks to the Lyons Club of Mobile
On July 19, 2005, OAI spoke to the Lyons Club of Mobile about groundwater and aquifers at their weekly luncheon. The topic, Aquifers (It helps to know what you are talking about), was thoroughly presented to an attentive audience of approximately 45 people. Based on the questions received during and after the talk, the audience was very receptive to the subject matter discussed. Several club members had site specific questions we hope we were able to help them with. OAI thanks Mr. Jim Fibbe for the invitation to speak and Melissa Yeend for assisting us with the power point projector set-up.
OAI welcomes the opportunity to make presentations to groups such as the Lyons Club of Mobile. If you are interested in having us speak before your group, please call 251-666-5285 to schedule a presentation.
Best Tasting Water In The State:
Two public supply wells with ties to OAI won awards at the Spring 2005 Meeting of the Alabama Rural Water Association. One, operated by one of our Mobile County clients, was awarded 1st Place in the Best Tasting Water category. The second, operated by one of our Baldwin County clients was awarded 2nd Place in the same category. The award winning Mobile County well was sited by OAI personnel who mapped the subsurface layout of aquifers in the Theodore area using skills developed during our days of petroleum exploration. The Baldwin County well would most likely have been written off as a "dry hole" had it not been for information recorded on the geologic log prepared by OAI personnel as the well was being drilled and pointed out in the follow-up report OAI prepared on the test bore. Instead of an expensive dry hole, a 700 gallon per minute public supply well was permitted and later recognized as having the 2nd Best tasting water in the State! Congratulations to both of these clients and thank you for choosing OAI for your hydrogeologic needs!
SWAGS President
Dan O'Donnell was recently elected President of the Southwest Section of the Alabama Geological Society (SWAGS), a division of the Alabama Geological Society. This organization was formed to promote geology in southwest Alabama. For membership information E-mail: groundwater@oiawater.com
Did You Know?
Alabama regulations (ADEM Admin. Code 335-7-5-.18) require that all community and NTNC water wells be logged by a geologist and that the geologic log is required as part of the permitting process for the well. While this may seem like an additional burden or an un-necessary cost, properly done, it is extremely beneficial to have an experienced professional geologist on site while the pilot bore is being drilled (see the note above on East Central Baldwin County's Well #3).
Recording a geologic log (i.e. mudlogging) should be a critical component of any groundwater resources project. OAI personnel have 160 hours of formal "mudlogging" classroom training through a subsidiary of Schlumberger. Coupled with this formal training is eight years of mudlogging experience with petroleum exploration wells to depths exceeding 20,000 feet. Since 1994, we have geologically logged over 30,700 feet of water wells for public supply, irrigation supply and industrial supply. Training and experience, OAI offers both for your benefit.
2004
O'Donnell & Associates, Inc. Success Story
OAI wins grant funding to monitor water levels in aquifers tapped by 13 public water supply wells. The grant, awarded by the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, provides for a one year study at wells operated by one Mobile County water system and two Baldwin County water systems. The data will be used to evaluate the "health" of the aquifers over the funded period. Each participating system has elected to continue monitoring beyond the grant funded period. In addition, an additional Mobile County water system has joined in the monitoring program after learning about the benefit of the program.
Groundwater monitoring is a key but often overlooked component of groundwater resources projects. The two year record of water level at one of our client's wells, Well #6, shows no indication the aquifer supplying this well is being depleted. In fact, despite the area wide precipitation deficit recorded between January 2005 and May 2006, the data shows that the water level in the well remains stable.
Call today to find out how OAI can implement a similar low cost groundwater level monitoring program for your system send an e-mail to:
groundwater@oaiwater.com
How To Get Solutions for Your Groundwater Supply Problems
Call 251-478-9939 with your situation. OAI may be able to open your eyes to options not previously considered. We look forward to hearing from you. We're sure you'll be glad you called.
|
