The challenges and implications of assessing groundwater recharge: A case study: Northern Sandveld, Western Cape, South Africa

Abstract

The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) is currently carrying out detailed hydrogeological studies within the northern Sandveld area, Western Cape, South Africa. In addition, preliminary studies funded by DWAF, have also been carried out in the area assessing hydrological, ecological and botanical components. The area is receiving much attention due to its environmental uniqueness (part of the area is a Ramsar site) and its significant groundwater resources, which are being utilised for agricultural purposes and municipal water supply. In certain areas this groundwater abstraction is impacting on surface water flows, groundwater and associated ecosystems. In order to gain an understanding of the systems and their inter-relationships within the area, it is necessary to carry out water balance calculations. In carrying out such calculations, the quantification of the “input” component and associated temporal and spatial variability is important to address.

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