Assessing hydrogeology of springs in Heuningnes Catchment in South Africa

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.