Which statement best describes the nature of groundwater as a natural resource?

It is an endless resource that automatically refills as soon as it is used.

It is a limited resource that can be depleted if it is used too quickly.

It is an inaccessible resource that cannot be used by humans.

It is a man-made resource stored in underground tanks.

A farming community relies on a single aquifer for irrigation. If they begin planting more crops and significantly increase their water pumping, what is the most likely consequence for their water source?

The water quality in the aquifer will improve.

The aquifer will recharge at a faster rate to meet the new demand.

The water level will drop, and the well could eventually run dry.

The pressure will build up, creating new natural springs.

Protecting the land area where water soaks into the ground.

Allowing rain to fall and seep into the soil.

Pumping water out of a well for homes and farms.

Measuring the depth of the water level.

The rate of pumping will automatically decrease.

The rate of natural recharge will decrease.

The water level in the aquifer will rise.

The aquifer will become over-pressurized.