A preliminary understanding of deep groundwater flow in the Table Mountain group (TMG) aquifer system

Abstract

The Table Mountain Group (TMG) Aquifer is the second largest aquifer system in South Africa, after dolomites. This aquifer has the potential to be a signinficant source of water for the people of the Western Cape. The occurrence of hot water springs in the TMG in relation with the main geological fault systems in SOuth Africa shows that deep flow systmes do exist. Little is known about these deep aquifer systems in South Africa (i.e. flow mechanisms). To close the above-mentioned knowledge gap, this study was initiated. The current study gave a review of some of the aspects that needs to be considered when distinguishing deep groundwater from shallow groundwater.