How is drawdown calculated in water systems?

Drawdown in water systems refers to the reduction in water level caused by pumping. It is a critical parameter to monitor because it helps assess the impact of pumping on the aquifer and ensures the sustainability of the water supply.

To calculate drawdown, the correct method is to subtract the pumping water level from the static water level. The static water level is the height of the water when the well is not being pumped, while the pumping water level is the height of the water in the well during pumping. By determining the difference between these two levels, you can effectively measure how much the water level has decreased due to pumping, which represents the drawdown.

Understanding drawdown is crucial for operators to manage groundwater resources effectively and prevent issues such as aquifer depletion or land subsidence.