Water
Dig a gypsy well beside stagnant water
A hole dug next to a stagnant pond fills with pre-filtered water through the soil layer — much cleaner than the pond itself.
Step-by-step
Choose a spot 3–5 feet back from the water's edge on the uphill side if possible.
Dig a hole about a foot across and deep enough that the bottom sits below the pond's waterline.
Let the first fill of muddy water seep in and bail it out completely — repeat 2–3 times.
Once the well refills with clearer water, scoop it gently to avoid stirring up sediment.
Still filter and boil or chemically treat before drinking — a gypsy well removes debris, not pathogens.
Tip: Line the sides with sticks or rocks to keep the walls from collapsing back into your water source.
Related outdoor skills
Educational reference only. Wilderness conditions change fast — practice in low-stakes settings, take a certified wilderness first-aid course, and confirm regional regulations before you rely on any of these skills in the field.