Kyra Xue

Something About Me

Kyra is a rising third year double majoring in Environmental Studies (B.S.) and Geography (B.A.) with an emphasis in GIS. She is interested in using geospatial techniques to examine interdisciplinary environmental issues, particularly in the sectors of agriculture, urban development, and transportation. Kyra developed her passion for sustainable farming while interning at the Terrace Foundation, a hydroponic tower farm working to reduce food insecurity in Santa Barbara. She continued that interest this summer as a Fellow mentored by PhD student Gemma Del Rossi, researching changes in agricultural production in Zambia and how they impact household food security, financial stability, and resilience to climate shocks. Kyra analyzed and mapped a household survey dataset conducted in summer 2024 to identify where and what agricultural investments are being implemented by farmers. She found that households located in the southern agro-ecological zones were hit by severe drought and experienced high rates of failed harvests during the 2023-2024 growing season, despite being able to afford greater assets. In contrast, households located in northern districts that own fewer assets still produced sufficient maize yields, likely due to higher precipitation levels. Kyra continues her research by exploring the practice of conservation agriculture and their potential to ensure food security as climate extremes become more frequent.