Overview of the hydrogeology of hard rock aquifers: Applications for their survey, management, modelling and protection

Abstract

Hard rocks (granites, metamorphic rocks) occupy large areas throughout the world (Africa, South and North America, India, Korea, several areas in Europe, etc.). Their groundwater resources are modest in terms of available discharge per well (from less than 2-3 m3/h up to 20 m3/h), compared to those in other types of aquifers (sedimentary, karstic or volcanic aquifers). They are, however, geographically widespread and therefore well suited to scattered settlement, and small to medium size cities. These resources contribute largely to the economic development of such regions, especially in arid and semi-arid areas where the surface water resource is limited. © 2008 Springer Netherlands.