What is precision farming?
Precision farming is basically on-the-go change of
application rate of agricultural chemicals and plant
population using information provided by satellites
orbiting the earth on-board computers mounted on
equipment used in farming. Variable-rate
application of chemicals has been given many
names, including: site-specific farming,
prescription farming, and precision farming.
Components of precision farming include:
identification of location in the field (longitude,
latitude, altitude); collecting site-specific
information regarding soil physical characteristics,
soil nutrient content, areas infested with pests, crop
yield etc.; using computer hardware and software to
store this information; processing and analyzing
this data; and using proper equipment to apply
chemicals on-the-go in accordance with the
information stored in the on-board computer.
Many computer software companies have recently
introduced a new generation of mapping software.
The location in the field at any given time is determined by using the Global Positioning System (GPS) of earth-orbiting satellites. Other information related to soil and other management practices is gathered using specific equipment and monitors. Finally, computer software called Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provides a means of graphically presenting, analyzing, and interpreting the data, linking management information and records to a specific point within a field.
So far, the most popular application of precision farming technology has been in the area of fertilizer application. This technology allows farmers to apply fertilizer only on areas where it is needed. Although not documented yet, the variable-rate application of fertilizers is expected to result in reductions both in the cost of fertilizer inputs and water contamination as a result of runoff and/or leaching of fertilizers.
Using soil maps, farmers can also alter tillage practices in sections of the field prone to erosion or compaction. Again the soil maps and yield data obtained from yield monitors can be used to determine the yield potential of areas in the field. This information can lead to changing fertilizer rates and planting population to maximize profit and reduce waste.
With new technologies using GPS and GIS, it is now possible to identify and isolate weedy areas of the field. By overlying weed maps along with soil maps, farmers can determine proper herbicide rates based on weed pressure, soil type, and organic matter content. Using this information and the variable-rate technology, farmers can achieve weed control that uses the right amount of herbicides for each area of the field. Unfortunately, variable-rate application of herbicides for weed control using GPS/GIS technology has not yet been fully implemented.
Profitability of the precision farming technology is still under scrutiny. The savings on cost of inputs when using variable-rate technology is, however, well documented.
Disclaimer
Information presented above and where trade names are used, they are supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Ohio State University Extension is implied. Although every attempt is made to produce information that is complete, timely, and accurate, the pesticide user bears responsibility of consulting the pesticide label and adhering to those directions.
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Keith L. Smith, Director, Ohio State University Extension.
All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.
Return to CAT News Homepage