What is a Ranney well?

A Ranney well refers to a specific type of well that incorporates lateral screens, which extend into the surrounding saturated soil or rock, allowing it to effectively draw water from nearby water sources. The design utilizes the natural groundwater flow, enhancing water capture while minimizing the potential for surface contamination. This method allows for a more ample flow of water compared to traditional wells, as it increases the area from which water can be accessed.

In this scenario, the other options do not accurately describe the characteristics of a Ranney well. A deep drilled well without lateral screens would refer to a different design that relies solely on vertical penetration into the aquifer. A well that draws from a distant reservoir suggests infrastructure unrelated to the local aquifer system, and a surface water intake system focuses on capturing water from surface bodies instead of accessing groundwater through lateral screens. This makes the choice of a dug well with lateral screens the correct identification of a Ranney well.