What does "static water level" refer to in well terminology?

The concept of "static water level" is defined as the distance from the ground surface to the water level when no water is being extracted from the well. This measurement is crucial for understanding the natural pressure and storage conditions of the aquifer. When a well is not being pumped, the water table reflects the equilibrium state of the groundwater in that area. This level indicates how deep the water is located beneath the surface under normal, non-pumping conditions, and it is essential for evaluating the potential yield of a well and for the management of groundwater resources.

In contrast, when the aquifer is actively pumped, the water level will drop due to the extraction, which does not reflect the static condition. Measurements related to water flow describe the movement of water within the well, but they do not pertain to the static state noted in the correct definition. The level of water in a sewage lagoon is entirely unrelated to the discussion of drinking water wells or aquifer levels, further distinguishing the focus of static water level terminology.