Protecting Groundwater and Controlling Subsurface Flow with Horizontal Wells
Directional Technologies designs and installs horizontal groundwater recovery and hydraulic control systems that provide long-term containment and treatment of contaminated groundwater. Our approach combines precision directional drilling with advanced environmental engineering to achieve maximum hydraulic control while minimizing surface disruption.
Horizontal wells are ideal for Superfund sites, landfills, and complex remediation projects where vertical systems have failed or are not feasible due to geology, accessibility, or cost.
Challenges in Groundwater Control
Traditional vertical groundwater recovery networks can lose efficiency over time due to mineral buildup, fine-grained formations, or changing subsurface conditions. These issues often lead to:
- Reduced hydraulic capture zones
- Inconsistent groundwater recovery
- Blockages and maintenance challenges
- Increased operational costs
- Incomplete protection of off-site receptors
At several sites regulated under state and federal programs, Directional Technologies has provided engineered horizontal solutions to restore performance and achieve full regulatory compliance.
Our Horizontal Groundwater Solution
When an existing vertical groundwater recovery system at a Superfund site began to fail, Directional Technologies engineered a horizontal leachate collection well to replace and improve hydraulic control.
The project involved installing an 800-foot horizontal stainless steel well approximately 36 feet below ground surface, designed to intercept and extract contaminated groundwater and landfill leachate. The well was equipped with a pumping system that directed recovered fluids to an on-site pretreatment facility before discharge to a publicly owned treatment works (POTW)
Advantages of Horizontal Groundwater Recovery Systems
- Continuous hydraulic control over extended subsurface areas
- Greater contact with target contamination zones
- Reduced surface footprint and operational impact
- Ideal for landfills, industrial facilities, and Superfund sites
- Compatible with leachate collection and groundwater recovery systems
- Proven effectiveness in fine-grained and mineralized formations
Why Directional Technologies
Directional Technologies has over 30 years of experience designing and installing horizontal wells for groundwater extraction. Our team has completed thousands of projects across North America, providing innovative solutions to complex sites.
We partner with consultants, engineers, and regulators to ensure every system meets performance, safety, and compliance objectives.