Restoring Wells in Arkhangai, Mongolia: Water for All 2025
In Partnership with Family Agricultural Resources Mongolia (FARM)
On Mongolia’s high steppe, water isn’t just a resource—it’s the rhythm of daily life for herding families and town residents alike. In August 2025, Trek Relief returned to Arkhangai to collaborate with FARM and the people of Undur Ulaan on a straightforward goal: restore reliable access to clean water, and strengthen local capacity to keep it that way.
We arrived to support a project already in motion. One well had been repaired and housing was underway; the community had a plan, momentum, and pride. Our role was to stand beside them—finishing critical protections and sharing skills that would last.
The Impact
Two freshwater wells restored through pump repair/replacement
Protective infrastructure completed: weather-proof housing, concrete pads, fencing, and insulation
Reliable access improved for 1200 residents, with each well estimated to move ~5.47–7.3 million liters per year
Water Sanitation and Hygiene Training launched by FARM with the Arkhangai Health Department
32 community members attended the first session
Additional trainings will reach 50–60 residents, including herding families
Local ownership reinforced: materials sourced and installed locally; on-site work included community members, hired local workers, guides, and drivers
Built with local hands
To keep stewardship local and maintenance practical, the team procured and installed supplies: 3 windows, 2 doors, 16 long fence panels, 4 water tanks, 6 drywall kits, insulation and roofing materials, paint and safety gear. On the ground, we completed insulation, housing, painting, fencing, and concrete. A volunteer with natural-building expertise also created a small rock garden to retain runoff and reduce erosion—simple, smart design for a windy, seasonal climate. Community artists (including our local guide) painted shared signage for FARM and Trek Relief to mark collective care.
Shortly after handover, a minor pump issue at one site was resolved with a single replacement part; both wells are now fully operational. Local committee members added additional weather-proofing for winter, and the district governor expressed enthusiasm for building kiosks to improve distribution—evidence of public leadership stepping in to carry the work forward.
What we accomplished
Our group came together from around the world to support local families in rural Mongolia while immersing ourselves in the beauty of the steppe. Over the course of 10 days, we worked side by side with community members to restore two freshwater wells, securing reliable clean water for hundreds of families and their livestock. Through shared stories, cultural exchange, and plenty of laughter, we deepened our understanding of resilience and sustainability in nomadic life. The impact went beyond infrastructure, building relationships and memories that will last well beyond the journey.
What’s Next
FARM has invited Trek Relief to explore complementary projects—“green kitchens” and school-based greenhouses—that teach children to grow nutritious food while strengthening community resilience. We’re also looking at deeper technical training (e.g., insulation and construction best practices) so volunteers arrive even better prepared to support rural infrastructure needs. Join us next time!
