SACRAMENTO-

Since 1979, Sharron Hope has helped farmers and residents find water.

Using an ancient technique called dowsing, or water witching, Hope takes a tree branch to help her pinpoint a possible water vein.

“I scan the property and then, as I get to the water source, it points to the water,” she said. “Trees know how to find water. They have to find water to survive.”

Hope then uses copper rods to pick up energy coming from the water source to confirm it is there.

Dowsers admit it is not science and federal and state water scientist including the USGS agree.

Marc Mondavi, vice president of the Mondavi family wine business is also a believer of the practice.

“It is not just about finding water it is about finding the most water. Simply put, you can never have too much water,” Mondavi said.

One of the most sought out dowsers in the state, Mondavi has been doing it for 38 years.

He says almost all Napa Valley farmers swear by the technique.

READ: Wine Grape Growers Celebrate Successful Harvest

“If you talk to scientists, they will tell you it is hokey pokey, but I can tell you that I have found numerous of the biggest wells in a given area,” Mondavi said.

As the drought increases the need for well water, dowsers are in high demand.

Their goal is to find the most water at the most shallow level before farmers spend the high cost to drill.

The deeper one drills the more costly it is.

So how does one become a dowser? If you ask one they will tell you you either have the gift – or you don’t.

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