Water Authority–Cayman has completed initial work for the site-specific hydrogeological survey of the Sister Islands by drilling pilot wells - a significant step in its mission to provide every resident of the Cayman Islands with access to a pure, wholesome, and affordable supply of potable water.
Two pilot wells were drilled at the site for the future Cayman Brac Water Works on the Bluff in February 2026, and another pilot well was drilled at the site for the Little Cayman Water Works in April 2026.
Core samples from all three wells are currently undergoing laboratory analysis to assess the permeability and porosity of the rock strata - key factors in determining the viability and design of wells for the new reverse osmosis water treatment plants. The lab results and final interpretative geological report are expected later this year.
In Cayman Brac, where the Water Authority marked 35 years of operations last month, rising demand has made expanding the current production capacity a priority. This hydrogeological survey is one of the first major steps toward a new, future-ready, and resilient water works facility for the island.
In Little Cayman, the significance is even greater. With no Water Authority operations on the island, residents and businesses rely on rainwater catchment, three privately operated reverse osmosis plants for potable water, and a well that provides water of marginal quality. The pilot well drilling marks the Authority’s first step toward establishing a permanent, reliable, and affordable water supply for the Little Cayman community.
Water Authority-Cayman Director Dr Gelia Frederick-van Genderen, said: "Water Authority-Cayman’s mandate is to ensure that everyone, on every island, has access to clean, affordable water. Investing in this critical infrastructure is how we meet our commitment. We are particularly encouraged by what this work potentially means for Little Cayman residents, and we look forward to receiving the results from the pilot wells later this year as we move closer to making that vision reality."
Water Resources Engineer Hendrik-Jan van Genderen said: "Hydrogeological surveying is essential groundwork. Before we can design and site wells for reverse osmosis plants, we need to understand the rock beneath our feet - its porosity, permeability, and suitability for the infrastructure we plan to build. The drilling went well on both islands, and the data will provide the evidence we need to move forward with confidence."
The Water Authority will provide a further update once results are received and reviewed. For all Water Authority news and updates go to Press Releases - Water Authority Cayman.