Spring as a Source of Water Supply

Springs have historically been a good source of water for humans.

A spring is a body of water that flows from underneath the earth's surface. Springs normally flow or seep out of the ground or a hillside, and they can be used as a water supply.

Spring Box Collection System

One common way to collect water from a spring is by using a spring box collection system. In this method, a water-tight basin is placed in the ground which collects the spring water. This captured water can then be distributed to houses or buildings through pipes and valves.

Perforated Pipe Collection System

Another way to collect spring water as a water supply is to directly intercept it with a pipe. The pipe then leads to a storage tank, where the water is purified and distributed to houses or buildings through another network of pipes.

Individual Collection

Historically, springs have been a good source for an individual's water supply, especially for drinking water. This is because the water in a spring is often naturally purified because if the spring is flowing down a hill, dangerous bacteria are often caught on rocks upstream.

References

• Public Health - Seattle & King County: What is a Spring?
• USGS: The Water Cycle: Springs: What is a Spring?