A conceptual model for the development and management of the Cape Flats aquifer, South Africa
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Date
2010
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Water Research Commission
Abstract
This paper provides an integrated approach to the analysis of the geological, hydrological and hydrogeological characteristics
of the Cape Flats: a coastal plain sand formed within the mountains of the Cape Town metropolitan area. The study is
mainly based on evaluation of available data, on surface water and groundwater, rainfall and selected springs, to describe
the Cape Flats aquifer. Qualitative analysis has shown that both surface water and groundwater of the investigated area
are of good quality; whereas sources of contamination indicated are restricted to certain parts of the area. Interpretation of
hydrogeological data and aquifer parameters revealed that the Cape Flats aquifer has good storage characteristics to support
its development for water supply, although the generally unconfined conditions render it highly susceptible to pollution from
the surface. From the analysis of long-term climate data in Cape Town, it is evident that fluctuation exists in the pattern of
rainfall; this rainfall pattern has implications for recharge and water management issues in the city. Therefore, a conceptual
hydrogeological model was developed to elucidate groundwater flow and recharge mechanisms in the Cape Flats.
Description
Keywords
Water resource management, Climate change, Water quality, Cape Town, Pollution
Citation
Adelana, S. et al. (2010). A conceptual model for the development and management of the Cape Flats aquifer, South Africa. Water SA, 36(4), 461-471. 10.4314/wsa.v36i4.58423