The elevation below the surface where the ground is fully saturated with water. Excavating below this point requires active dewatering systems to keep the trench or foundation dry. Knowing this depth is essential before pouring footings or digging basements to prevent flooding and soil collapse.
Heard on the job
The groundwater level is only four feet down, so we need to set up the wellpoints before we dig the foundation.
Related terms
Wellpoint
A perforated pipe driven into the ground to pump out groundwater and lower the water table.
Dry well
An underground structure that collects surface runoff and allows it to slowly percolate into the surrounding soil.
Fill soil
Earth brought in to raise the grade or fill depressions on a construction site.