Drilling with foam

Today we began our regular drilling schedule.  In an attempt to limit our water use in the upper, dry portion of the hole, we are using foam as a lubricant.  It will take some time to determine the proper foam/water mix for the drilling conditions, but so far the foam is doing its job well.

    By the end of the day shift, drilling had progressed to a depth of 60 ft.  At 100 ft we will stop and widen the hole with a rotary bit, then set and cement casing to that depth.  This casing will help prevent the loose rock near the surface from caving into the drillhole.