RESEARCH

Base Line Data Collection

The CWBR has developed a project to collect up to date baseline data using drone technology. The information produced is open source and shared with WorldWide Fund for Nature (WWF), Cape Nature, The African Climate Change Development Initiative (ACDI), Socio-Economic Benefits of Investing in Ecological Infrastructure (SEBEI), Municipalities and other conservation and development organizations.

Researchers, Universities, members of the public, municipalities and businesses request information from CWBR.  On many issues, such as conservation, water resources, pollution, community issues and alien clearing. CWBR can offer answers to many of these queries either through its own research or by linking with partners and contacts who have the necessary information.

African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI) University of Cape Town

Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve was chosen as the site for research by African Climate and Development Initiative in 2019, resulting in collaboration with Socio-Economic Benefits of Ecological Infrastructure (SEBEI), an interdisciplinary research project.

With the use of a drone, the CWBR collected baseline data to assist ground-level research investigating the topography of riverbanks, within six Ecological Infrastructure research sites, along the Berg-Breede and Greater uMngeni catchments. The aim is to understand river and water resources and how they can be conserved effectively for water preservation and use.

Visit SEBEI for more information.

Article. The Conversation: Clearing alien trees can help reduce climate change impact on Cape Town’s water supply. Published: March 14th, 2022

Further reading - The hydrological benefits of restoration: A modelling study of alien tree clearing in four mountain catchments in South Africa. Published February 3rd, 2022

Delving more into the research done - ScienceDirect: Mapping invasive alien trees in water towers: A combined approach using satellite data fusion, drone technology and expert engagement By Petra B. Holden , Alanna J. Rebelo, Mark G. New.