How to Collect Spring Water
Spring water is a naturally occurring source of water found in many outdoor locations. Springs emanate from cracks in rocks, bubble up from the ground, and emerge from beneath ponds and lakes. Spring water, unless contaminated by ground pollutants, is typically very clean and pure as it originates from underground lakes and streams. However, filtering or purification is still recommended in all but extreme situations.
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Instructions
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Locate a spring from which to collect water. Springs are found on forest floors, running from rock walls or over hangs, and along or near streams, creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes.
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Use a clean container or bottle to collect the spring water. Hold the container as close to the source of the spring as possible. Typically, the flow of the water will have cleared a small area from which water may be collected before it comes into contact with surrounding debris.
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Clear a small area from the source of the spring if leaves, sticks, rocks, and other potential contaminating items interfere with the spring's flow. Allow the water to flow for several minutes to flush any sediments or contaminants from the spring source before collecting.
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Examine the water in the container. If the water appears clear with no floating contaminants, filtering will not be necessary. If sediment or other debris is visible, strain the water through a filter or cloth to remove unwanted particles. Many water filters have screens for this purpose.
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Treat the water, even if you are relatively sure the spring is not contaminated. Giardia and crystosporidium are nasty microbes which may cause severe cramping and diarrhea if ingested. It is best to be safe and treat the water by passing through a purifier or using a purifier such as Aqua Drops or Aqua Tabs.
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Tips & Warnings
Take the time to properly collect and treat spring water before use. Only in an emergency or survival situation should unfiltered and untreated water be consumed.
Failing to properly collect and treat spring water can result in dehydration due to extreme diarrhea which can be life-threatening if untreated.
