In recent decades there has been an increase in the costs associated with crop inputs, the products, and expertise required for producers to have adequate grain production. As a result, crop inputs must be better managed to increase yields, reduce costs, and improve environmental conditions. Current research methods are combining proximal soil sensors that will account for spatial and temporal variability in the soil in combination with UAV (unnamed aerial vehicle) sensing that will capture the variability during crop growth. The goal of this project is to improve soil health and crop yield, ensuring economic and environmental sustainability.

What is the challenge?

The research will focus on establishing proper integration and assessment of integrated soil sensing and digital soil mapping technology, that are necessary for optimizing crop input management in an economically and ecologically responsible manner.

Addressing the problem:

This study will assess the operational and economic feasibility and benefits of smart farming techniques focusing on site-specific nutrient management combining proximal soil sensing and UAV sensing for Ontario grain growers.

Project Impact:

The technology developed will lead to optimization of crop management and will provide an alternative to laboratory analysis, providing site-specific management.

Key message for decision makers:

This research will contribute to Precision Agriculture technologies that will provide efficient management tools that will increase yield and reduce cost, while also contributing to an improved and cleaner environment.

Collaborators and students:

Dr. Bill Deen (Co-Investigator), Dr. John Sulik (Co-Investigator), Dr. Adam Gillespie (Co-Investigator), and Dr. Prasad Daggupati (Co-Investigator)