Jaco du Toit is a Junior Geologist at Umvoto with a BSc Honours degree in Earth Sciences from Stellenbosch University. His Honours thesis focused on analysing monthly and weekly groundwater quality monitoring data from a fractured aquifer at the Mariendahl Experimental Farm in Elsenburg. The monitoring programme was designed to evaluate water treatment performance in response to elevated iron and manganese concentrations exceeding SANS 241 drinking water standards. The untreated groundwater dataset, however, gave him an opportunity to characterise the dominant hydrogeochemical processes and assess the effects of temporal variability due to natural and anthropogenic controls on the geochemical composition of the groundwater. His study highlighted the importance of high-frequency monitoring and recommended additional parameters to support interpretations and improve future sustainable groundwater management.
During his time as an Intern at Umvoto, Jaco has gained practical experience in hydrogeology to complement the theoretical knowledge he gained during his studies. His long-term goal is to build a strong foundation needed to become a professional Hydrogeologist.
Outside of work, Jaco enjoys outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, camping and hiking. He also has a keen interest in collecting rocks, minerals and fossils, and also enjoys playing video games in his downtime.
