==Construction, operations and maintenance==
[[Image:RiverbedWellWithHandpump.jpg|thumb|right|350px| Riverbed well with offset handpump. Eric Fewster, BushProof. <br> (Click image to zoom.)]]
[[Image:NewRiverbedWell.jpg|thumb|right|350px| New riverbed well. The new well's ''hydro dynamic'' design means it won't be washed away or destroyed by fast flowing rivers during the rainy season. These wells provide cleaner, fresher water, and are safer than climbing into unprotected holes. They are time saving too as traditional wells have to be re-dug each dry season. Photo: Jane Beesley.]]
'''General advice on cement''': A common cause of cracks in structures and linings (e.g. in tanks, dams, waterways, wells) is errors in mixing and applying the cement. First of all, it is important that only pure ingredients are used: clean water, clean sand, clean rocks. The materials have to be mixed very thoroughly. Secondly, the amount of water during mixing needs to minimal: the concrete or cement needs to be just workable, on the dry side even, and not fluid. Thirdly, it is essential that during curing the cement or concrete is kept moist at all times, for at least a week. Structures should be covered with plastic, large leaves or other materials during the curing period, and kept wet regularly.
'''Specific advice''':
[[Image:RiverbedWellWithHandpump.jpg|thumb|right|350px| Riverbed well with offset handpump. Eric Fewster, BushProof. <br> (Click image to zoom.)]]
[[Image:NewRiverbedWell.jpg|thumb|right|350px| New riverbed well. The new well's ''hydro dynamic'' design means it won't be washed away or destroyed by fast flowing rivers during the rainy season. These wells provide cleaner, fresher water, and are safer than climbing into unprotected holes. They are time saving too as traditional wells have to be re-dug each dry season. Photo: Jane Beesley.]]
Simplify construction methods while getting a more robust end product in a safer fashion. Pre-cast concrete rings can be used, but is more easily done with a cutting foundation ring and curved concrete blocks, some of which are made from porous concrete.