5 & 12 August 2025 – Auckland & Christchurch
Dr. Grant Ferguson from the University of Saskatchewan, Canada presented “Deep Groundwater and Deep Time” as part of the 2025 NGWA Darcy Lecture Series.
The lectures were held at BECA Auckland (5 August) and University of Canterbury (12 August) with good turnout at both venues.
Overview
Dr. Ferguson’s presentation explored the vast volumes of deep groundwater systems that rival ice sheets in scale. He discussed how these systems, while contributing minimally to streamflow, are increasingly important for carbon sequestration, waste disposal, and understanding Earth’s subsurface biosphere. The lecture highlighted the unique challenges of studying deep groundwater, including complex flow processes driven by density variations and geological forces operating over geological timescales.
Photos from the Christchurch Event
About the Speaker
Dr. Grant Ferguson is a professor of hydrogeology at the University of Saskatchewan and Vice President (North America) for the International Association of Hydrogeologists. His research focuses on deep groundwater systems, paleohydrogeology, and sustainable groundwater development.
The New Zealand Chapter of IAH gratefully acknowledges the support of Beca and Intera for sponsoring the Auckland event, and the University of Canterbury for hosting the Christchurch event.