Using stable isotopes and hydrochemistry to quantify end-member source dynamics in the Berg River of the Franschhoek and Paarl Valley
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Date
2023
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
The Berg River is a main source of freshwater in South Africa's Franschhoek-Paarl valley for domestic use, industry, and agriculture, but climate change or variability and poor management threaten its quality and quantity. A theoretical understanding of the basin's runoff processes, including the balance between groundwater and precipitation inputs in the river system, is crucial for meeting ecological reserve requirements and preserving ecosystems. By comprehending the dynamics and relationship between the river and its end-member sources by evaluating the contributions of groundwater and precipitation to the streamflow and the seasonal behaviour of solutes, the ecological health and functioning of the river and its associated ecosystems can successfully be managed and maintained. This study involved 25 sampling campaigns conducted between 2020 and 2021 along the Berg River in the Franschhoek and Paarl valley at 40 locations to sample precipitation (n=3), groundwater (n=15), and main river and major tributaries (n=22). The aim was to assess the temporal and spatial variations of the isotopic and hydrochemical compositions to quantify the river’s end-member source dynamics.
Description
>Magister Scientiae - MSc
Keywords
Climate change, Precipitation, Isotopic analysis, Recharge, Hydrograph separation