Cave and Karst

  Limitations of Conventional Darcy-Based Groundwater Modelling in Karst and Chalk Aquifers: Hydroecological Risks and the Need for Integrated Biospeleological Assessment Mike Buchanan 2025 Abstract Conventional Darcy-based regional groundwater models, such as MODFLOW using an Equivalent Porous Medium (EPM) approach, are widely employed in regulatory assessments of abstraction impacts. While suitable for many porous aquifers, this method is conceptually and practically limited in karstic carbonates, which include chalk, limestone and dolomite. In such settings, conduit and fracture-dominated flows, cross-catchment connectivity, and highly stratified subterranean ecosystems challenge the validity of standard modelling outputs. This paper critiques the continued reliance on such models in the UK context, using the case of abstraction licensing in Chalk aquifers, and calls for the mandatory inclusion of karst-specific hydrogeological techniques and biospeleological baselines in ...

  The Ethical Responsibilities of a Karstologist: A Comprehensive Overview Mike Buchanan 2023 A Philosophical Expression An ethical karstologist embodies a profound responsibility to the intricate karst landscapes they study, recognising these environments as vital ecosystems that sustain diverse life forms and human communities. Their duties extend beyond scientific inquiry; they must advocate for the preservation of these fragile ecosystems, balancing the pursuit of knowledge with a commitment to sustainability and conservation. By fostering a deep respect for the interconnectedness of all living things, an ethical karstologist seeks to illuminate the delicate relationship between human activity and nature, ensuring that their research contributes to a harmonious coexistence that honours the past, nurtures the present, and safeguards the future of karst landscapes. This integrated approach champions the stewardship of these unique environments, emphasizing that the integrit...