The New Iron and Manganese Removal Plant for Lincoln, Nebraska

Abstract

Prior to 1932, Lincoln's water supply was obtained from thirtytwo wells, divided into four groups all located within the city limits, each having a capacity of approximately one-half million gallons per day. The records of ground water levels showed that in the twentyyear period from 1910 to 1930, the ground water level was receding at the rate of 2 feet per year and in the year 1930, the recession amounted to 5 feet. In the same year, the four wells in the 31st and X street group became so salty that they all had to be discontinued. In the spring of 1931, the voters approved a bond issue in the sum of $2,300,000 for the purpose of developing an additional supply of water from the Platte River Valley near Ashland. Five wells were then constructed in the Platte River Valley approximately three miles northeast of the town of Ashland. These wells are 2000 feet apart in a direct north and south line, the distance from the Platte River varying from approximately one-fourth mile at the extreme north well to three-fourths of a mile at the extreme south well. The depth of the wells varies from 47 to 86 feet, all going down to the white limestone valley floor. The soil formation in all five wells is practically the same, consisting of a mixture of sand and gravel below a top soil, 12 to 18 inches deep. The ground water table is quite high, being located from 4 to 6 feet below the surface of the ground.