Relocating a Buried 5000-Gallon Water Tank with a Backhoe

[MikePhua]

Water Scarcity and Rural Infrastructure
In parts of the American Southwest, particularly in Arizona’s desert communities, access to reliable water sources remains a persistent challenge. Wells often fail or produce poor-quality water, and municipal supply lines may not reach remote properties. As a result, hauled water has become a primary solution for many residents. In some areas, water delivery services fill tanks from hydrants located miles away, charging rates that have risen from $0.33 to an anticipated $0.66 per gallon within a few years. This growing demand has turned water hauling into a booming business, especially in equestrian zones where large properties lack piped water.
The Tank and Its Original Placement
A 5000-gallon steel water tank had been buried behind a house near a failed well. While the underground placement offered cooler water temperatures during scorching summers and aesthetic concealment, it created logistical headaches. The tank’s location obstructed vehicle movement and complicated water delivery. Relocating it to the front of the property became necessary for both function and form.
Choosing the Right Equipment for the Job
The equipment selected for the task was a 2007 Case 580 Super M Extendahoe, a four-wheel-drive backhoe-loader with pilot controls and a 36-inch bucket. With over 12,000 operating hours, the machine was well-worn but still capable. The Case 580 series, introduced in the 1980s, has sold hundreds of thousands of units globally and is known for its reliability and versatility. The Extendahoe feature allows the backhoe boom to telescope, increasing reach and digging depth—ideal for deep excavation and lifting tasks.
Excavation and Extraction Strategy
The tank was fully buried, requiring careful excavation to avoid damaging its structure. Initial attempts to lift it with the boom fully extended failed due to leverage loss and insufficient hydraulic force. By repositioning the machine closer and using the stick (the inner portion of the backhoe arm), the operator was able to generate enough lifting power. The tank was emptied beforehand to reduce weight, and the operator leaned it against the excavation edge to shift some of the load off the boom. This technique allowed the tank to be lifted without overloading the hydraulics.
Transporting the Tank Across Uneven Terrain
Moving the tank to its new location involved navigating uneven ground and managing balance. To counteract tipping while backing up, the operator filled the loader bucket with dirt, adding front-end ballast. This improvised counterweight stabilized the machine and allowed for controlled movement. The tank was successfully placed at the front of the house, away from traffic paths and in a spot that minimized risk of accidental damage.
Burial Practices and Safety Considerations
In desert regions, burying water tanks is common for temperature control and visual appeal. However, buried tanks must be clearly marked and protected from vehicle traffic. There have been incidents where garbage trucks or delivery vehicles unknowingly drove over unmarked tanks, causing collapse and costly damage. Proper signage, barriers, or strategic placement can prevent such accidents.
Technology Enhancing Water Delivery
Modern water delivery services are adopting wireless tank monitoring systems. These devices use laser sensors mounted above the tank to measure water levels and transmit data to the supplier. When levels drop below a preset threshold, the system alerts the delivery driver, who can schedule a refill without relying on manual checks. This automation reduces emergency calls and improves route efficiency. Some residents resist the technology due to privacy concerns, but others appreciate the convenience and cost savings.
Lessons from the Field
Operating a high-hour machine on uneven terrain requires skill and adaptability. The Case 580’s pilot controls and responsive hydraulics made the job manageable, even with limited budget and equipment. The relocation project demonstrated that with proper planning, even bulky infrastructure like a 5000-gallon tank can be moved safely and effectively.
In one anecdote, a similar tank was repurposed by a moonshine operation in Appalachia, highlighting the versatility of large steel vessels. In another, a homeowner installed a cistern in the basement connected to roof downspouts, using rainwater for hot water to avoid the corrosive effects of hard well water on heating elements.
Conclusion
Relocating a buried water tank is more than a mechanical task—it’s a response to environmental constraints, infrastructure gaps, and evolving community needs. With the right equipment, a bit of ingenuity, and awareness of local conditions, such projects can improve daily life and prepare properties for future growth. As water becomes an increasingly valuable resource, the systems that store and deliver it must be as resilient and adaptable as the people who rely on them.