Public Camp Manual

An adequate supply of pure water is a necessity in all camps. Supplies should be developed and the water piped throughout the area, with hydrants spotted in such a manner as to have water within 150 feet of each individual camp site. The dipping of water from streams should not be tolerated, once a water system is installed.

Where springs are used as a source of supply, some method of development which fits local conditions should be followed. The essentials in all developments are the delivery of sufficient water, or all the water available, protection against pollution, and protection against rodents and vermin. In most cases it will be advisable to store water from springs in a tank, to build up a supply for peak use. Pipe lines, hydrants, unions, etc., should be shown on the camp map. Spring faucets should be used in places where the supply is limited, except where sand or grit is carried in the water.

In all camps where water is piped from streams or springs a sand box or settling tank should be installed at the source of supply, to keep sand out of the pipes.

Where wells are dug, they should be curbed from the bottom to a point at least one foot above the ground level. Galvanized iron, corrugated culvert pipe of 30-36 inches diameter, perforated for the bottom six or eight feet, is excellent well curbing. Above ground, it should be sheathed with a concrete, masonry or redwood curb. The well should be fitted with a redwood cover over which a sheathing of tin or smooth galvanized iron is placed. This should be the minimum development for a well.

Types of Well Curbing The well-house shown on the right presents a much better appearance and is to be preferred to the simple cover and pump.

In most cases it will be found desirable to construct a well house of pleasing design above the well curbing. A type of structure which harmonizes with its surroundings and is of simple construction should be the objective in such a project.

In order to eliminate mud holes around faucets, a hydrant curb similar to that illustrated on the following page is recommended.

The utmost care should be taken in locating all camp improvements so as to prevent the pollution of the water supply.

(click on image for a PDF version)

FLOW OF WATER IN PIPES (click on image for a PDF version)