Assessing hydrogeology of springs in Heuningnes Catchment in South Africa
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Date
2021
Authors
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Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
Springs have been a significant source of water for flora and fauna since the beginning of
human history and, in some circumstances, the only source capable of supplying enough
water to sustain domestic and agricultural water supplies. Research that expands our
understanding of the potential and limitations of these resources has not focused much on
springs that are located outside of karst environments. Groundwater discharge is part of the
interaction that makes groundwater visible and sustains ecosystems. Groundwater discharges
in rivers, springs, and wetlands forms groundwater-dependent ecosystems (GDEs). GDEs are
often complex, and poorly understood component of the natural environment. For example,
identifying actual spots for spring discharges and validating previously mapped springs
remains a challenge; hence, the focus of the current study, which, argues that if spring
hydrogeology is not characterized first, then the influence of such springs on the environment
and human needs cannot inform their action. This study aimed at providing improved
knowledge and understanding of spring hydrogeology. Heuningnes catchment in South
Africa was used as a case study. Three specific objectives were set as follows: 1] spring
hydrogeology was characterized where new springs were identified, and old springs were
validated/crosschecked. A springs map was produced and overlaid on a conceptual model of
groundwater flow to describe subsurface conditions for spring occurrence; 2] Flow dynamics
of springs were determined where spring flows were measured to estimate discharge rate; 3]
the hydrogeochemistry of springs was assessed with hydrogeochemical processes responsible
for temporal and spatial changes in the quality of spring waters were established for
suitability of water for use by the environment and people. Results showed that the validated
springs existed in upland, middle, and lowland within the study catchment. Most springs were
associated with Table Mountain Group and Bokkeveld formations with fractures, lithological
contacts, and faults that influenced the main flow paths for springs.
Description
Magister Scientiae (Integrated Water Resource Management)
Keywords
Springs, Agricultural water supply, Ground water, Heuningnes catchment