Guest Blog: Hydrogeologists Without Borders

Geology for Global Development (GfGD) is delighted to host their first guest blogger, Geraint Burrows – the UK representative of Hydrogeologists Without Borders. Geraint has an MSc in Community Water Supply from Cranfield University and has worked with a number of NGOs such as the International Rescue Committee, Medecins Sans Frontieres and Tearfund. He is currently finishing an MSc in Hydrogeology at the University of Birmingham. GfGD asked Geraint to share a bit more about Hydrogeologists Without Borders, and how you can get involved:

GERAINT WRITES:

Hydrogeologists Without Borders (HWB) is a relatively new initiative founded by a group of Canadian hydrogeologists in 2005. HWB is a charitable organisation set up with the aim to provide hydrogeological assistance and educational support to areas of the world lacking access to this vital specialism.

Well Jetting (Darfur)

ACTIVITIES

HWB currently has over 200 hydrogeologists on its register; the majority based in Canada, including eminent names such as Dr John Cherry who wrote the famous hydrogeological textbook ‘Groundwater’ (Freeze and Cherry, 1979).

HWB supports six MSc hydrogeology programmes in Central and South America through the HWB Farvolden Fellowship Programme.

HWB is partnering with a number of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and creating opportunities for HWB members to assist with groundwater based aid and development projects.

CAN YOU HELP?

In the beginning of 2011 a UK based HWB chapter was launched. We are currently seeking to build up a register of hydrogeologists and groundwater engineers within the UK. We are also seeking individuals who would be willing to help with UK based administrative work and fundraising.

If you are interested in becoming part of HWB then please contact Geraint Burrows and visit our website at http://hydrogeologistswithoutborders.org.

We look forward to hearing from you.