Wells and Water

The Yucatan is a unique geographical region because there are no above ground rivers. The peninsula sits on a huge limestone platform of highly permeable rock. Rainwater filters below the surface and forms one of the largest underground freshwater reservoirs in the world.

Of course, we have city water, but like many who live in this region, we rely on the underground water for the garden and pool. There was already a well on the property when we bought it, but over time, it became polluted.

Our builder suggested going deeper for cleaner water, which we could also draw on to fill the swimming pools. We drilled two wells, one for our house and the casita, and a separate one for the adjoining property. These go to a depth of eighteen meters.

The old well, which is less than twelve meters deep will not go to waste as is a perfect place to drain a swimming pool into.

At the moment the new wells have not been connected to pumping systems because nothing happens quickly here. There is still work to be done, but it is a relief to have the drilling completed.

Merida is an old city dating back to 1542. Since the founders never installed a public sewage system, every property bears responsibility for their own septic disposal. These are called Focas. One would think that the city might install an inaugurated system, but I’m told that the unusual geography also plays a role.

We have a Foca on each side of the property, but as we are adding additional water usage to both homes, we will need to install a second one on each side. I will cover that topic in more detail, when we get to it.

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