Water is quickly becoming one of the most precious substances on this planet. Population growth has placed a tremendous demand on our readily available water resources. Lakes and rivers all over the world are being drained in an effort to supply our water needs. The farmer is also feeling the drought. Rain and snow are important sources of water for crops, but they are of little use to the livestock we raise.
Ground water is the primary source of water for many rural farms. Dowsing, or "witching," has been around for centuries -- some believe for as long as seven thousand years. The traditional tool of the trade was a forked rod made of wood ( hazel, willow or ash work best ). The dowser holds the rod in their hands and walks the area to be evaluated. When the rod trembles and dips it indicates that what you are searching for can be found at that spot. Modern dowsers will also use metal rods or pendulums.
The jury is still out on whether or not dowsing works. Scientific studies have been done, and the results provide lots of ammunition for both sides. I have tried dowsing and have found that I can find water. I have never tried it to find a spot for a well, although there are well-drilling companies that swear by it.
The making of a dowsing rod is quite simple. I suggest using a metal coat hanger. The first step is to cut the coat hanger into two rods.
If you wish longer rods, you can use two hangers. Some believe a longer rod works better. Bend them so that you have about a 4-5-inch handle. Holding the Dowsing Rod
The rod should be held loosely in your hand. It needs to be able to move. The handle should point to the ground and the main part of the rod is held parallel to the ground. Hold your hands at waist height, side by side. This is the start position. ( To test if you are holding too tightly, rotate your wrists outward. The rod end will start falling to the ground due to gravity if held properly ).
Dowsing
Begin walking along a straight line. You will form a grid over the area you wish to dowse. When you find water, the rods will move by themselves and cross over the point of interest. Mark this spot and walk toward this area from a different direction. If you get the same result repeatedly, it is a strong indication that you have found water.
Ground water is the primary source of water for many rural farms. Dowsing, or "witching," has been around for centuries -- some believe for as long as seven thousand years. The traditional tool of the trade was a forked rod made of wood ( hazel, willow or ash work best ). The dowser holds the rod in their hands and walks the area to be evaluated. When the rod trembles and dips it indicates that what you are searching for can be found at that spot. Modern dowsers will also use metal rods or pendulums.
The jury is still out on whether or not dowsing works. Scientific studies have been done, and the results provide lots of ammunition for both sides. I have tried dowsing and have found that I can find water. I have never tried it to find a spot for a well, although there are well-drilling companies that swear by it.
The making of a dowsing rod is quite simple. I suggest using a metal coat hanger. The first step is to cut the coat hanger into two rods.
If you wish longer rods, you can use two hangers. Some believe a longer rod works better. Bend them so that you have about a 4-5-inch handle. Holding the Dowsing Rod
The rod should be held loosely in your hand. It needs to be able to move. The handle should point to the ground and the main part of the rod is held parallel to the ground. Hold your hands at waist height, side by side. This is the start position. ( To test if you are holding too tightly, rotate your wrists outward. The rod end will start falling to the ground due to gravity if held properly ).
Dowsing
Begin walking along a straight line. You will form a grid over the area you wish to dowse. When you find water, the rods will move by themselves and cross over the point of interest. Mark this spot and walk toward this area from a different direction. If you get the same result repeatedly, it is a strong indication that you have found water.
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