Agriculture technology has revolutionized the industry and made it more productive, efficient and profitable. In recent years, the term precision agriculture has been used often to describe a way of farming where various technologies assist farmers in collecting, processing and accessing data. This data collection empowers farmers to make informed decisions that are in the best interest of their agribusinesses and that promote sustainability. Agriculture experts recognize the need to increase yields as the population is expected to reach 9.8 billion by 2050. Following precision agriculture principles and leveraging technology is crucial to enhancing crop yields. Let’s explore some of the aspects of precision agriculture and the technologies used.
Variable Rate Technology
Increased crop yields and waste minimization can be attributed to variable rate technology (VRT). This technology deals with input applications where farmers can adjust input amounts to exactly what the soil needs. There are various types of VRT including map based and sensor based. In map based VRT, sophisticated maps are used to develop a plan for input application. This plan is uploaded into high-tech farming equipment such as seeders, spreaders and sprayers for more precise application.
In sensor based VRT, sensors are used to detect the exact need of the crops and provide it with the exact amount of input it requires at the time of application. With precise application of inputs, farmers save money, and it increases yields because the crops are receiving the precise amount of nutrients required. That improves their overall health and prevents over or under applying necessary inputs. One challenge with VRT and other precision agriculture technologies is the investment cost. Agriculture experts recognize that farmers need to see the benefits and return on investment before adopting these practices.
Data Analytics
Satellites and drones are used to survey lands and determine areas of need. This data is then used to create management plans for farmers. Integrating data analytics gives farmers the knowledge needed to make decisions on irrigation, fertilization and pest control. Data collected from remote sensing technologies gather information such as soil compaction, soil water availability, leaf temperature, leaf area index, plant water status, local climate data, insect disease infestation and more. This information is analyzed and gives farmers the information needed to manage crops. Data analytics helps improve crop yields in many ways, including resolving pest issues before crops are ruined and compensating for weather events before they occur.
Final Thoughts
There are other components to precision agriculture including precision planting and harvesting, smart irrigation and more. The goal of precision agriculture is to reduce waste through precise applications and utilize data to optimize farming operations to produce higher yields and profits for farmers. Agribusinesses and farmers must weigh the cost versus benefit of implementing precision agriculture technologies. Agriculture experts recognize that precision agriculture is part of the now and future of sustainable, productive and profitable agriculture.