Water is life, and therefore it is critical to understand processes related to water, to effectively manage our ecosystems. Nearly all rain comes into contact with the soil, which means that an understanding of the soil-water relationship is critical for healthy ecosystem management. Hydropedology uses the tools of soil morphology, soil water measurements, hydrological modelling and conceptual hydrological response models to understand the movement of water through the soil. This is then interpreted for the specific need, be it extent of pollution, natural wetland functioning, town planning or catchment management.

Our directors are on the forefront of hydropedology research. Pieter Le Roux pioneered the field in Africa, while Johan van Tol introduced modelling to the field and Darren Bouwer incorporates the use of chemical signatures into the assessments.