Review of research progress of karst groundwater in northern China

Abstract

The Middle-Upper Proterozoic and Lower Paleozoic carbonate aquifers in northern China are continuously deposited with large thicknesses and wide distribution areas. Karst groundwater plays an critical role in national economic construction due to the rich water resources stored in karst aquifers. It is a national strategic water resource in China. Based on the author's investigation and research experience on karst water in northern China, this work provides a preliminary summary of the research progress and shortcomings in the aspects of karst groundwater systems and hydrogeological conditions, evolution trends and causes of environmental problems, utilization and protection of karst groundwater, ecological restoration and technical methods of investigation and research. This paper sends a congratulation to the 70th anniversary of the establishment of China University of Geosciences and the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Bulletin of Geological Science and Technology.It also provides a reference for hydrogeological colleagues of karst groundwater research in northern China.

Keywords

• karst in northern china
• groundwater
• karst environment
• karst spring