2.2 Experimental methods
Field observations formed the cornerstone of the methodology in this study to understand and characterise the pans in the study area. A total of 17 pans were studied with regards to their immediate environmental settings. Of particular importance was the orientation of the closest tree, as trees are suspected to initiate pan formation. Furthermore, soil hydraulic conductivity tests were undertaken in the immediate vicinity of trees with possibility of pan formation. These tests were completed using a Decagon® Mini disk infiltrometer which shows the pressure under which soil absorbs water. The cumulative infiltration during the test was measured and recorded. Lastly, two sets of penetrometer readings were taken in the vicinity of the trees during field trip. The first set of readings was completed prior to the first rainfall event while the second set of tests were done after the rainfall event. The data from the infiltration and penetrometer tests were gridded and kriged in order to create contour plots.