Understanding How Young Eucalypts Adapt: A Closer Look at Photosynthesis, Water Use, and Leaf Structure

Eucalyptus trees are not just iconic symbols of the southern hemisphere, they’re also key players in forestry, carbon sequestration, and climate adaptation. But how do young Eucalyptus trees cope with different environments? That’s the question at the heart of Erin Ramsay’s research, which explores how juvenile Eucalyptus species manage water use, photosynthesis, and structural growth […]

Branching Out: EucXylo’s Dynamic Presence at the FSIF Workshop

On 25 June, Prof Drew and Dr Moller-Hanekom represented EucXylo at the Forestry Sector Innovation Fund (FSIF) workshop, where innovation and collaboration took centre stage. The two-day event offered a rich exchange of ideas among researchers representing the physiological, genomic, and modelling sectors in forestry, sparking vibrant discussions and fostering collaboration among participants. It was […]

Global Expertise Meets Local Innovation at the IMPACT Open-Air Lab

We were honoured to host Dr Sam van Holsbeeck from the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia, and Prof Ben Spong, together with three of his undergraduate students — Maddy, Jimmy, and JJ — from West Virginia University, USA, at the IMPACT Open-Air Lab. Dr van Holsbeeck brings extensive expertise in integrated pest, disease, and […]

Exploring Advanced Aerial Imaging for Forestry Research

Earlier this year, we had the incredible opportunity to witness a demonstration of the DJI Matrice 3DT drone and DJI Dock 2, led by Integrated Aerial Systems (IAS) at the IMPACT OAL site. The demonstration provided valuable insights into how UAV technology can support precision forestry and environmental monitoring. A big thank you to Warren […]

DSTI and FSA Visit Marks a Milestone for Forestry Research at IMPACT OAL

The IMPACT Open-Air Laboratory (OAL) recently had the privilege of welcoming esteemed representatives from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and Forestry South Africa (FSA). The visit marked an important moment in our journey to advance sustainable forestry research and strengthen collaborative efforts between government, industry, and science. This visit was especially meaningful […]

Celebrating Our Master’s Graduates : A Journey of Excellence and Achievement

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of our brilliant Master’s graduates : Yenziwe Mbuyisa, Matthew van Eyssen, and Christopher Erasmus, who have successfully obtained their Master’s. Yenziwe Mbuyisa – For her remarkable work on The Effects of Temperature and Water Availability on Water Use Efficiency in two 𝘔𝘺𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘢𝘦 species, 𝘌. 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘴 and 𝘚. […]