A borehole site assessment is the most important step before any drilling begins. Here is what happens during an assessment and why skipping it is a costly mistake.
A proper site assessment includes a desktop study of the local geology using available maps and hydrogeological data, followed by an on-site geophysical survey. The survey typically uses electrical resistivity imaging to detect fracture zones and aquifer targets beneath the surface. We also factor in any neighbour borehole data available in the area.
The output of the assessment is a recommended drilling target location, an estimated depth range to reach the aquifer, and a brief written report. This gives you confidence before you commit to drilling costs. Skipping the assessment and drilling blind increases the risk of a dry or low-yield hole — and in South Africa that risk is significant in harder rock terrain.
