Early in February 2017, a group of honours students from the School of Forensic Accounting conducted a survey that found 152 of the 747 oak trees that are part of Oak Avenue were sick, while 24 were dead, and 136 had already been removed. This alarming news brought together various stakeholders at a meeting on February 15, 2017, to determine how this historic landmark could be saved. Various experts shared their knowledge and findings, and the Oak Avenue Interest Group was established under the guidance of Heritage Potchefstroom Erfenis. This group consisted of representatives from Heritage Potchefstroom Erfenis, JB Marks Municipality, Potchefstroom Chamber of Commerce, Cachet Park City Improvement District (CID), staff and students of North-West University dedicated to preserving Oak Avenue, and individuals from Potchefstroom concerned about the avenue’s future.
Three postgraduate student projects from NWU have since 2019 focused on the vitality of the trees and the physical and chemical condition of the soil. The general conclusion was that the trees are suffering from environmental stress and showing visual signs of dying, but not all trees in the study area necessarily experienced drought stress. Chemical analyses indicated clear nutrient deficiencies and physical analyses confirmed that soil density and compaction affect water infiltration, gas exchange, and the volumetric water content of the soil.
The main goal of the Oak Avenue Interest Group is to raise awareness about the existence and preservation of Oak Avenue. NWU researchers have made several proposals regarding the management of the oak trees, including the development of an integrated management and monitoring plan, as well as the creation of a comprehensive database and map of the avenue in which information about each tree can be recorded. This project is currently underway.
Various projects have been initiated to raise awareness, especially among the youth, with an annual “Plant an Acorn, Grow an Oak Tree” project held annually at a local primary school. The annual Volkie-Gimmie Derby, an initiative of the Potchefstroom Chamber of Commerce, is a special event where the two schools decorate the trees in their school colours. Each year during National Arbor Week, Gimmies and Volkies also help plant young trees; since 2021, 47 new trees have already been planted.
Action is taken in collaboration with JB Marks Municipality against institutions that damage the trees, and owners of trees are encouraged to take care of their trees. If you have a heart for Oak Avenue, join us. We need your help!
Hi! I’m Oakie, the happiest little acorn in Potchefstroom. I am the biggest fan of oak trees you’ll ever meet! Although I am just a tiny acorn, I have a big dream – to grow into a strong oak tree and help keep our Oak Avenue beautiful and thriving! I love meeting new friends, especially people like you who care about our trees as much as I do.
When I’m not planting new saplings or cheering on the community at events, I’m spreading the word about how important it is to protect my big oak family. Together, we can ensure our Historic Oak Avenue stays shady and special for years! Let’s grow greatness – one acorn at a time!
Have a question, a report, or want to get involved?
Reach out to us and join the effort to preserve Potchefstroom’s iconic Oak Avenue.
