Funding a new well project

Posted byCassie Gledhill

Installing a new water well system is a significant investment for rural property owners. It can provide access to reliable and clean drinking water, which is essential for their family’s health and well-being. It can also increase the property value, making this a worthwhile investment. However, a new well project requires research and planning. Property owners will need to find a reputable well contractor, learn about well drilling conditions in their area, and get bids to estimate the cost of the project. At this stage, many property owners wonder, “how can I fund this project?”. Financing is a big factor to consider for those looking to make this investment. Fortunately, there are a few programs currently available for property owners who need a water well.

Household Water Well & Septic System Loan/Grants Program. Provides assistance to low-income rural properties to repair or replace water well systems.

RCAC Link

Contact: klor@rcac.org

Provides funding for wells and/or septic systems for low‐income families nationwide that need safe drinking water or wastewater systems. Property must be occupied for at least one year, no new construction, no reliable source of water to the home and no option to connect to public water utility. Max household income $39,480

Water Well Trust Link

Contact: info@waterwelltrust.org

Provides loans to very low-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes or grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards.

USDA Program Link

Contact: bret.dixon@usda.gov

In recent years, grants have become accessible through both State and County funding to assist low-income families facing challenges with failing wells. Eligible applicants had the opportunity to receive grant reimbursement of up to $40,000 for the replacement of failing wells through the OWRD’s Water Well Abandonment, Repair, and Replacement Fund. Although funding is currently unavailable, the program will reopen applications if additional funding becomes available.

Oregon Water Resources Department

Contact: OWRD.Well.Funding@water.oregon.gov

Klamath County Contact

Contact: nclaybaugh@klamathcounty.org

Property owners who do not meet eligibility requirements for other loans and grants might find it worthwhile to explore financing options offered by local banks. These institutions often provide home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) or Home Improvement Loans for qualified applicants.

At Clouser Drilling, we care about the health and happiness of your family, which depends on having reliable and clean water. Finding a financial plan for how to access this vital resource can ease the burden of planning a new water well system. We realize this is a major investment in your family’s well-being and are ready to assist you to make your project a success.