What is the purpose of the access port in a well?

The access port in a well serves the purpose of allowing for the measurement of the depth to the water surface. This feature is crucial because monitoring the water level helps ensure that the well is functioning properly and can provide adequate water supply. By measuring the depth of the water, well contractors and owners can assess the health of the aquifer, understand the changes in water levels over time, and detect potential issues such as over-extraction or seasonal variation in water availability.

Other options do not align with the primary function of the access port. For instance, while water flows out of the well during pumping, the access port itself is not designed for that purpose. Draining excess water is typically managed through different mechanisms, like drainage systems or overflow features. Moreover, while preventing contamination is important in well construction and maintenance, the access port specifically focuses on water level measurement rather than serving as a barrier to surface runoff.