5.5 Notes for Successful Test Execution

Completing a successful aquifer test requires careful planning and coordination. It helps to remember that if a test is started and conditions are such that early‑time drawdown data are not being collected rapidly enough (Table 1) or the pumping rate is varying such that a planned constant discharge rate is not occurring, it is best to stop the test and restart it once water levels have recovered. The test is restarted when measurement frequency issues are resolved and a method to stabilize the pumping rate has been implemented. This will increase the time and costs needed to complete the test, but it is better to correct these issues than spend the time and money to complete a long, poor‑quality pumping test.