Emily Gavor - Research

HONOURS PROJECT

Title: The Spatiotemporal Variation of Soil Water Content in Hedgerow Plum Orchards in the Western Cape

This project investigated how rainfall and irrigation influence soil water content (SWC) in commercial hedgerow plum orchards in the Western Cape, South Africa — a region facing increasing water scarcity. By using AquaCheck subsurface soil moisture probes and GPS data, I analysed SWC variation across irrigated and non-irrigated areas in two orchards employing different irrigation methods (drip and microjet). The study aimed to support more precise, sustainable water management strategies in fruit production through spatial and temporal analysis of moisture distribution.

To complement soil data, measuring the Leaf Area Index (LAI) helped assess the canopy structure and potential evapotranspiration, offering insights into plant water use and orchard productivity. Together, these metrics informed improved irrigation scheduling and contributed to advancing the goals of SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).

Plum Orchards

Plum orchards in the Western Cape thrive in the region's favorable Mediterranean climate, producing high-quality fruit sought after for its exceptional taste. Sustainable plum farming is vital for economic stability and water conservation in the region.

Fruit production

Plum production is crucial to the Western Cape’s agricultural economy, South Africa’s main stone fruit region with the export of over 15.5 million cartons in 2021/22. This industry supports many jobs, boosts rural development, and contributes to ecosystem health.

Field Data Collection in Plum Orchards

Plum orchards in the Western Cape thrive in the region's favorable climate, producing high-quality fruit sought after for its exceptional taste and contributing significantly to the local agricultural economy.

Measuring Leaf Area Index in Plum Orchards

Measuring the leaf area index is crucial for assessing plant growth, understanding ecosystem health, and monitoring environmental changes, aiding in effective agricultural management and conservation efforts.

FIELD WORK: MANAGED AQUIFER RECHARGE

RIVER FIELD STUDY: FLOW, SEDIMENT, AND ECOSYSTEM ASSESSMENT

During this fieldwork, we measured river flow and collected soil samples from the riverbed. The samples were later sieved in the lab to analyze sediment size and composition. We also surveyed the surrounding vegetation and observed animal life to assess the overall health and biodiversity of the river ecosystem.