The most reliable method of obtaining the depth to the water table at any given time is to measure the water level in a shallow well with a tape. If no wells are available, surface geophysical methods can sometimes be used, depending on surface accessibility for placing electric or acoustic probes.
How do I know if my well water is static?
Check your static water level
The easiest way to check your static (resting) water level is to tie a small weight (such as a metal nut) to a string, and lower it into the well. First, flip off the electric breaker, and remove the well cap, which is usually held by 3 bolts.
How is water level measured?
Electric water level meters – referred to as sounders – are frequently used in groundwater to measure level. These instruments are essentially tape measures with a probe on the end. Once the sensor contacts the water, it completes a circuit, causing an indicator to beep and an LED to glow.