New field technician well versed in arid lands monitoring

Marco Pauw, who recently joined SAEON’s Arid Lands Node, has ample experience in monitoring and research in the dry regions of our country.

Marco Pauw joined the team at SAEON’s Arid Lands Node in April this year. He has considerable experience in monitoring and research in the arid regions of our country, and is therefore well equipped with skills and expertise ideally suited to the Arid Lands Node.

Marco has an MSc in Conservation Ecology from the University of Stellenbosch. His research focused on the monitoring of rehabilitation on a mineral sands mine in Namaqualand.

He recently published a policy brief in which he addressed the implications of existing legislation and policies on the restoration process, incorporating his Masters project as one of the case studies.

Research on range land dynamics

In addition to his work in Namaqualand, Marco has also conducted research on the restoration of range land in other parts of the Succulent Karoo. His role at the Arid Lands Node will primarily be focused on the collection and management of data from the various long-term monitoring sites, as well as providing technical support to researchers and students. Given his research background, he will also be involved with the analysis component of some of the node’s projects.

Marco grew up in the picturesque Winelands region of the Western Cape. From a young age his family instilled in him a curiosity and appreciation for the natural world and this has remained a great passion in his life. He views his position at the Arid Lands Node as the perfect opportunity to further his career while doing what he enjoys most – spending time in the field.