The month of October brings with it a spooky blend of fun and mysterious traditions. Among the jack-o’-lanterns, goblins, and ghosts, there’s one ancient practice that adds a touch of magic to the season: water witching.

What is Water Witching?

Also called “water dowsing,” this refers to the practice of using a forked stick, rod, or pendulum to locate underground water. The practice is thousands of years old and, for many practitioners, includes the identification of treasures beyond water, like lost items or answers to burning questions.

Water witches use energetic vibrations and intuition, along with the dowser’s tool of choice, to find the best spot for a productive well. The practice has been a source of controversy since its inception.

According to the American Society of Dowsers (ASD), anyone can try water dowsing.

“Dowsing taps into this original way of knowing, born of our profound interconnectedness,” Dowsing author and host, Charisse Sisou, said.

While many see water witching as nothing more than myth, there’s a strong community that still clings to the age-old art.

During the California drought of 2012-2016, for example, farmers and vintners alike began turning to water witches in the hopes of finding critical groundwater supplies. Due to the varying costs associated with professional hydrogeologic services, traditional water dowsers have gained popularity among those seeking more budget-friendly options.

How to Water Witch

Water Dowsers have been known to use an array of tools such as coat hangers and car keys. However, the item that seems to work best is a freshly cut tree branch with three ends.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reports that most dowsers prefer to use a willow, fruit, or witch hazel tree branch.

• Step 1: Hold this forked stick in your hands
• Step 2: Hold one side in each hand and point the third side approximately 45 degrees into the sky.
• Step 3: Walk back and forth around the location where you’re searching for water. The side pointing upwards may begin to point sharply towards the earth. According to water witches, there is where you will find water.

What Does Science Say About Water Witching?

While charming and even convincing in some demonstrations, many doubt the mystical powers associated with this practice.

Scientific study tells us that some water exists almost everywhere under the earth’s surface, which is why water witching practitioners may appear successful most of the time.

“In a region of adequate rainfall and favorable geology, it is difficult not to drill and find water,” the USGS reports.

The true question lies in the viability of the water located, begging the question, should the water be used? To investigate this, hydrogeologists like WSC’s Jessica Chomyn study the following:

1. Sufficient Water Supply: Is the underground water enough water to meet the needs of the user?
2. Sustainable Recharge: The water in the earth must be refilled for continued use, whether by natural or artificial means. Can this process happen at a rate close to or greater than the rate at which water is extracted?
3. Water Quality: Is the water clean enough, or can it be made clean enough, for its intended use?

“For all we know, water witchers could have found a thin zone of perched groundwater impacted by contaminants!” Jessica said.

Despite the lack of science associated with the practice, Jessica acknowledged the excitement inherent in it.

“Water witching is certainly one of the more curious methods in the world of groundwater exploration. As a hydrogeologist, I rely on scientific principles like geophysics, aquifer mapping, and soil studies. That being said, I’ve also seen a farmer in West Texas use dowsing to find a subsurface water line with nothing but a pair of bent wires! While we don’t fully understand how or why it works, there’s something intriguing about it—whether it’s tapping into an unknown force or gut instinct.”

Jessica Chomyn, PG, PMP

WSC Hydrogeologist

Whether you believe in its powers, enjoy the lore, or think it a hoax altogether, there’s something magical about combining the hunt for underground streams with the eeriness of the season.

Learn about WSC’s Hydrogeology Service >