Flatwater Feature: Gothenburg Irrigation & Well Service
For over three decades, Gothenburg Irrigation & Well Service has been keeping Nebraska’s most vital resource — water — flowing for homes, farms, and businesses across central and west central Nebraska.
Family owned and operated, the business began in 1991 when Joe Richeson’s parents started Richeson Well Service. Today, Sonia continues to run day-to-day accounting while Joe works hands-on with customers and employees to ensure every project receives individualized attention.
Their work spans domestic, livestock, irrigation, and commercial water wells, pumps, and distribution systems. What many people may not know is that their team also travels statewide rehabilitating irrigation wells — sometimes using explosive devices to aid in cleaning.
Over the years, the company has grown from a local operation to serving communities from Brule to Hampton, north to Ainsworth, and south to McCook — all thanks to word-of-mouth referrals.
A typical day for the team is never predictable. Plans can change in an instant when emergencies arise, like a feedlot suddenly being without water. Crews might be installing a solar-powered livestock system, pulling an irrigation pump, or repairing one of the 100+ windmills they service annually.
When you work with Gothenburg Irrigation, you get direct, personal involvement from Joe in the design and completion of new systems, ensuring every customer receives the best possible service.
Being part of the Gothenburg community is a point of pride. The Richeson family gives back through time, resources, and encouraging employees to do the same. As Joe says, “The community has been really good to work with over the years.”
The business has also learned to adapt quickly to changing circumstances — whether that’s a global pandemic or an unexpected well emergency. Flexibility, resilience, and a commitment to service have been key to their success.
Joe also believes strongly in shopping local. “It’s the people you see at school events, church, or in the grocery store,” he explains. “If we don’t take advantage of local resources, they may not be available to us in the future.”
Gothenburg Irrigation & Well Service is a testament to the value of hard work, adaptability, and community connection — keeping Nebraska’s water flowing and its communities thriving.
