Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Mathers Drilling been serving Central Oregon?
Mathers Drilling is a fourth-generation, family-owned well drilling company that has been serving Central Oregon for over 88 years. Our family has generations of experience drilling wells throughout the region and understanding Central Oregon’s unique ground conditions.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Bend, La Pine, Sunriver, and communities throughout Central Oregon. Specializing in La Pine soils. Contact us with your property location and we can let you know whether it falls within our current service area.
How much does it cost to drill a well?
Every well is different, so the final cost depends on the depth of the well, ground conditions, materials required, and other site-specific factors. We provide an estimate before beginning work and are happy to explain the costs involved.
Can you tell exactly how deep my well will need to be?
Not exactly. Nearby well records can give us helpful information about typical depths in an area, but underground conditions can vary significantly from one property to another. The actual depth isn’t known until the well is drilled.
Can you guarantee that you’ll find water?
No well driller can guarantee the exact depth, quantity, or quality of groundwater before drilling. We use our experience, available well records, and knowledge of Central Oregon geology to help evaluate a property, but groundwater conditions ultimately determine the results.
How long does it take to drill a well?
The drilling itself can often be completed relatively quickly, but every project is different. Depth, geology, access, weather, permitting, equipment needs, and unexpected drilling conditions can all affect the timeline. We’ll communicate with you throughout the process.
Do I need a permit to drill a well in Oregon?
Oregon has requirements governing well construction, and the appropriate paperwork must be completed for a new well. We’ll explain what is required for your project and what Mathers Drilling handles as part of the drilling process.
Do you install well pumps?
Mathers Drilling specializes in well drilling, and we partner with Palmer’s Pump for pump installation and related services. This partnership allows us to help make the process as seamless as possible, from drilling your well through getting the right pump system in place for your property.
What is included when you drill a new well?
The exact scope depends on the project. Before work begins, we’ll provide an estimate outlining the drilling work and anticipated costs so you know what is and isn’t included.
What happens if you have to drill deeper than originally estimated?
A well estimate is based on the information available before drilling, including nearby well data when applicable. Because we cannot see underground conditions beforehand, actual footage can vary. If additional drilling is necessary, charges are based on the actual work and footage completed according to the terms of your estimate.
Can you look at neighboring wells to estimate the depth of mine?
Yes. Existing well records in the surrounding area can be useful when evaluating a property and preparing an estimate. They provide a reference point, but they don’t guarantee that your property’s well will have the same depth, water production, or geology.
What does a well’s flow rate mean?
Flow rate generally refers to how much water a well produces, typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM). A higher number isn’t automatically necessary for every property. The well’s production, storage, intended use, and pump system all play a role in how the water supply performs.
Do you drill replacement wells?
Yes, depending on the property and circumstances. If you’re having problems with an existing well, contact us and we'll discuss the situation and determine whether drilling a replacement well may be appropriate. The State of Oregon also has to approve deepening an existing well.
Do you drill wells for new construction?
Yes. We work with homeowners, builders, contractors, and property owners on wells for new construction and other projects throughout our service area.
Can you drill anywhere on my property?
Not necessarily. Well location can be affected by property boundaries, septic systems, potential contamination sources, access for drilling equipment, and Oregon well construction requirements. We’ll work with you to determine an appropriate location.
How much room does your drilling equipment need?
Well drilling requires adequate access and working space for large equipment. Trees, structures, overhead lines, steep terrain, narrow driveways, and other site conditions can affect accessibility. If you’re unsure about your property, contact us and we can discuss it with you.
What information should I have when I call for an estimate?
The most helpful starting point is the property address or tax lot/location, whether there is an existing well, what the property will be used for, and any information you already have about the project. From there, we’ll let you know what else we need.
Why choose Mathers Drilling?
We’re a fourth-generation family business with more than 88 years of experience serving Central Oregon. We believe in straightforward communication, quality work, and treating our customers the way we’d want our own family to be treated.
Still have questions about your property?
Give Mathers Drilling a call. We’re happy to talk through your project, look at the information available for your area, and help you understand what to expect.
Mathers Drilling Co.
20129 Mathers Rd.
Bend, OR 97703
(541) 389-0743