Matthys Dippenaar.
About the author
Dr Matthys Dippenaar is a senior
lecturer at the University of Pretoria.
He completed his doctorate in vadose
zone hydrology applied to engineering
geology and hydrogeology. His
research focus is urban hydrogeology
and geotechnics and he continuous
to publish in these topics. He is also
presently the chair of the GWD.
Numerous important aquifers
are shared with neighbouring
countries, and groundwater is
also subjected to section 21 of
the National Water Act, 1998 (Act
No. 36 of 1998). In this context,
hydrogeologists aid in the
licensing, equitable allocation,
and long-term management of
groundwater resources.
Hydrogeological investigation
is required as part of environmental
impact assessments and water
use
license
applications.
Practically any new development
is investigated in terms of its
hydrogeology and subsequently,
hydrogeologists have knowledge
regarding the likelihood of water
supply from groundwater. Not all
aquifers are equal, and clearly
the suitability of groundwater
supply is dependent on the aquifer
properties
and
groundwater
recharge
from
rainfall.
Nonetheless, it is a resource
worth considering, especially
in terms of climate change and
precautionary planning for
future droughts due to rapid
population growth.
South Africa has the professional
capacity to use groundwater
better and to incorporate it
into municipal water mixes.
Groundwater is not exclusively
for agricultural and rural use, and
can contribute significantly to our
available resources, especially in
times of need.
Hydrogeology is not a
watered-down discipline, but
entails a highly scientific skill set in
fundamental science and geology.
Hydrogeologists use geophysics
to site boreholes; they use
mathematics to quantify flow of
groundwater; they use chemistry
to address the quality of water;
and they view the resource as an
economic commodity and a social
need. None are more adept at
informing about the opportunities
groundwater can offer than
the
excellent
groundwater
professionals in South Africa.
The GWD not only believes
in groundwater as a sustainable
water supply option, but also
in the professional ability of its
members to assess the resource
to world-class standards. u