Any action that doesn't reach beyond the well itself into the aquifer cannot truly be considered development. Development requires physically removing silt, clay, fine sand, scale, biofouling and construction damage, not simply redistributing them within the well or the aquifer. Usually accomplished by jetting, surging and/or airlifting, development clears these materials from the well and its surroundings, and serves to integrate the well into its environment.

No matter how carefully a well is planned, designed and constructed, development is essential to ensure the wells efficiency, water quality and cost-effectiveness.