What occurs when a water-bearing stratum reaches the surface of the ground?

Prepare for the American Water Works Water Treatment Plant Operator Test. Study with multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel!

When groundwater in a water-bearing layer (an aquifer) reaches the ground surface, it can discharge naturally as a spring. This happens because the aquifer is tapped by the surface and the pressure or perched water finds a path to the surface, producing a natural outlet that may flow continuously or seasonally. Springs are a source of fresh water in many areas and may require treatment depending on water quality for potable use.

The other items are not natural surface discharges: a weir is a device in a stream used to measure flow; a dug well is an excavation dug to access groundwater; a Parshall flume is a flow-measuring device in open channels.