Groundwater is freshwater found beneath the earth's surface - specifically in the cracks and spaces in soil, sand and rock - that supplies wells and springs. The definition applies to all permanent and temporary water deposits, formed both artificially and naturally, of sufficient quality for at least seasonal use. Groundwater supplies are replenished, or recharged, by rain and melting snow, depending on climate conditions. They can usually be recovered from, or via, an underground formation.