Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2025
06:36
A Field Primer for Monitoring Benthic Ecosystems Using Structure-From-Motion Photogrammetry
Published on: April 15, 2021
3.6K
Dike-induced aquifer models derived from high-resolution multi-spectral satellite imagery
Samkelo Radebe1, Martin Clark2
1Department of Geology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa.
Scientific Reports
|October 10, 2024
Summary
Groundwater flow in arid regions is influenced by dolerite dikes. Remote sensing of vegetation indices effectively identifies dike-related aquifer models and their seasonal sustainability for better groundwater management.
Area of Science:
- Earth Science
- Hydrology
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- The Main Karoo Basin, South Africa, faces expanding arid conditions, increasing reliance on groundwater.
- Dolerite dikes globally are recognized for their influence on subsurface water flow and association with productive boreholes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To remotely assess the impact of dolerite dikes on groundwater flow patterns.
- To characterize dike-related aquifer models and evaluate their seasonal vegetation sustainability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-resolution, multi-spectral satellite imagery from wet and dry seasons (2018, 2021).
- Employed the Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI) to analyze vegetation patterns.
- Identified and mapped 505 dolerite dikes and their influence on aquifer systems.
Main Results:
- Two primary dike-related aquifer models were identified: barrier-controlled (56%) and fractured (35%).
- Vegetation indices revealed that areas overlying these aquifers support plant growth during dry seasons.
- Demonstrated a correlation between dike presence, aquifer type, and vegetation persistence.
Conclusions:
- Vegetation indices are effective tools for rapid characterization of dike-related aquifer models.
- Understanding seasonal aquifer sustainability is crucial for effective groundwater exploration and management in arid environments.
- This approach aids in identifying viable groundwater resources in regions with similar geological structures.
