9 & 12 December 2024 – Christchurch & Auckland
Dr. Matthew W. Becker from California State University Long Beach, USA presented “How Groundwater Impacts the People and Ecosystems of the South Pacific Islands” as part of the 2024 NGWA Darcy Lecture Series.
The lectures were held at University of Canterbury (9 December) and BECA Auckland (12 December) with good attendance at both venues.
Overview
Dr. Becker’s presentation explored how groundwater plays a critical role in the resilience of Pacific islands. He discussed groundwater as a vital resource for the first settlers of Rapa Nui (Easter Island), its role in helping coral reefs flourish in nutrient-poor waters (Darwin’s Paradox), and its importance for terrestrial ecosystems. The lecture highlighted how climate change and sea level rise threaten these unique hydrogeologic systems and emphasized the need for better understanding to support strategic adaptation to environmental stresses.
About the Speaker
Dr. Matthew W. Becker is the Conrey Chair in Hydrogeology and Professor of Earth Sciences at California State University Long Beach. His research focuses on fluid flow in highly heterogeneous subsurface environments.
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.
