What does "over pumping" in well development involve?

Over pumping in well development specifically refers to the practice of extracting groundwater at a rate that exceeds the well's sustainable yield. This can lead to a variety of negative consequences, including a decrease in water levels, increased risk of well contamination, reduced groundwater quality, and potentially damaging the aquifer itself. When pumping at a rate greater than the well's capacity, the well may not be able to recharge adequately, which compromises its functionality and longevity.

In this context, pumping at normal capacity for a set period does not qualify as over pumping because it adheres to the sustainable limits of the well. Backwashing the well to remove debris and using chemicals to break down clays involve maintenance practices but do not directly describe or cause over pumping. Thus, pumping at a higher rate than the well's capacity during sampling illustrates the essence of over pumping, highlighting the importance of managing extraction rates to ensure the health and viability of groundwater resources.