Private Well Drilled To Keep Grass Green

"Watering restrictions are common across the Southeast as officials struggle to conserve the area's dwindling water supply. Many homeowners have become accustomed to living with brown grass and thirsty shrubbery. But Pericchi - who works in the landscaping business - decided to take steps to keep his own lawn green."

"Last week, he hired a crew to drill a private well in his front yard. It cost more than $3,000, but to Pericchi, it's a sound investment that will allow him to keep watering his grass and gardens."

"It used to be almost unheard of for people who are served by public water systems to dig wells in their yards. But as those public systems impose watering restrictions because of the drought, private irrigation wells are becoming more common, especially in upscale neighborhoods."

"State laws typically place few restrictions on private irrigation wells. Even drought-stricken communities that ban outdoor watering from public supplies usually can't stop private well owners from irrigating."

"But in North Carolina, some leaders are concerned about the growing popularity of irrigation wells. The resort town of Pinehurst last month imposed a moratorium on new wells, and state officials are warning that some irrigation wells can affect local water tables."