This diagram shows that water is added to the aquifer by precipitation and infiltration (soaking into the ground) below streams and lakes. Precipitation in the Rocky Mountains is responsible for much of the recharge of the Denver Basin aquifer system. Consider how the water level of the aquifer might change if the climate of the region were to become wetter or drier.

Water is subtracted from the aquifer at wells and natural springs. Consider how increasing or decreasing the amount of water pumped out of the aquifer at wells would change the water level of the aquifer.

3. Describe how changes in the climate of this region might affect the water level of the aquifer.

4. How might human activities affect the water level of the aquifer?