What is the recommended method to mitigate subsurface water issues during excavation?

Pumping is the recommended method to mitigate subsurface water issues during excavation because it effectively removes excess water from the excavation site. This method helps control water levels, reducing the risk of water accumulation that could compromise the stability of the excavation and surrounding areas. By utilizing pumps, operators can manage groundwater and surface water, ensuring a safer and more efficient excavation process.

This method is particularly important in areas where soil is saturated or where water flows could hinder excavation efforts. Adequately addressing water management through pumping allows for maintaining a dry work environment, facilitating better working conditions and minimizing complications associated with wet ground.

The other options do not provide suitable or effective solutions for managing subsurface water. Excavating deeper could inadvertently encounter more water and exacerbate the problem. Capping would not address the underlying water issue but rather seal it, which can lead to further complications. Irrigating is not relevant in this context, as it involves adding water rather than managing it, which could worsen subsurface water problems during excavation.