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Hydrogeology of the malmani dolomite in the Klip River and Natalspruit basins, South Africa

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Environmental Geology and Water Sciences

Abstract

A first evaluation of the hydrogeology of the Klip River and Natalspruit basins was carried out in order to assess the aquifer's potential for public water supply. The investigation showed that transmissivities in the dolomites are both stratigraphically and structurally controlled. Chert-rich units exhibited better aquifer properties than chert-poor units. Karstification was recognized on near surface and deep pa-laeokarstic horizons. Structural features such as faults, joints, and fractures play an important role in karstification in the area. The volume of effluents discharged into the aquifer is estimated to be approximately 3-times the natural recharge of the aquifer by rainfall. These effluents are derived from sewage purification works and gold treatment plants and have caused extensive deterioration of the quality of surface and groundwater, particularly so in the Natalspruit basin.

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Kafri, U., Foster, M.B.J. Hydrogeology of the malmani dolomite in the Klip River and Natalspruit basins, South Africa. Environ. Geol. Water Sci 13, 153–166 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01664700

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01664700

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