What happens if the drawdown of a well increases?

An increase in the drawdown of a well typically indicates that the difference in water level between the static water level and the pumping water level has increased. When drawdown increases, it can signify that the flow of groundwater into the well is diminishing, which can result from several factors, one of which could be a clogging of the well screen. This clogging can occur due to sediment, biofouling, or mineral buildup, which can restrict the water flow into the well. Thus, increasing drawdown can lead to decreased well efficiency and yield. Understanding this relationship is crucial for water management and maintaining efficient well operation.

While other factors can contribute to changing drawdown conditions, such as over-extraction when too much water is removed too quickly, the specific link to a clogged screen gives insight into one of the primary causes of increasing drawdown in a well scenario.