An Overview of Dowsing

Dowsing for Water

Dowsing for sources of underground water, whether for private, community or commercial utility is a time-honoured practice with skilled and experienced practitioners to be found all over the world and in almost every community.

Traditional tools for water dowsing include the Y-shaped branches of hazel, apple and willow, although any other dowsing tool can be used for the purpose.

The assessment of water sources includes their accurate geographic allocation, their depth below the surface, their volume or flow rate including any seasonal fluctuation, and the quality of the water for drinking or other purposes.

The movement of water underground varies considerably in relation to the local terrain and underlying geology, and knowledge of these factors locally and appropriate geological knowledge and research aid greatly in the dowsing process.

Techniques for water extraction from both deep and shallow sources require technical knowledge and often specialised equipment, and a familiarity with local practices and available tools and technology are also of benefit and importance when discerning appropriate locations for siting a well.

It is also necessary for the dowser to have a clear understanding of the specific water needs, either current or potential that each situation calls for, in order that a suitable volume of water of the appropriate quality may be searched for.

Used extensively in situations where piped or overground water is either unavailable or prohibitively expensive, underground sources of water are also of potential benefit where surface runoff of industrial or agricultural pollutants make other water sources unsuitable for use.

Dowsing for water is a natural human faculty, and the development of the necessary skills and discipline are best obtained by careful training and coaching by experienced practitioners.

The British Society of Dowsers supports, encourages and promotes dowsing and dowsers in a manner consistent with the highest standards of personal integrity and behaviour, and is a resource for all those interested in exploring and contributing to the field.