The Groundwater Strategy is the outcome of a three-year consultative process. The process entailed a series of detailed studies, a list of which are given in the References at the end of the Strategy. It is designed to ensure that groundwater is recognised, utilized and protected as an integral part of South Africa's water resource. The Strategy is divided into a series of themes or Chapters, each of which has a number of recommended actions which address the challenges raised in the theme.