What might be a sign of over-extraction from a well?

Lower than normal water levels indicate a sign of over-extraction from a well because when water is withdrawn from a well at a rate that exceeds the recharge rate of the aquifer, the water levels will drop. This condition can lead to a variety of problems, including insufficient water supply for users, increased energy costs for pumping deeper, and potential damage to the well system.

In contrast, increased flow rate, consistent water pressure, or improved taste and clarity of water might suggest that the well is functioning well or that the water quality is acceptable, but these factors do not specifically indicate over-extraction. In fact, consistent water pressure can be a sign of a well that is adequately balanced in terms of extraction and recharge. Improved taste and clarity could suggest effective filtration or treatment processes rather than issues related to extraction rates. Therefore, the observation of lower water levels provides direct evidence that over-extraction is occurring, making it the most relevant indicator in this context.