Targeted Soil Sampling
Sensor data alone is not enough
Truth
Ground truthing refines interpretations, capturing local variations that remote sensing might miss
Optimisation
Soil samples calibrate geophysical measurements, optimising precision agriculture strategies for individual fields
Accuracy
Accurate data from ground truthing enhances farmers' confidence in making informed land management choices
Understand Soils First
Soil is the primary medium for plant growth
Understanding
Understanding the soils first, is paramount to understanding yield and biomass results
Efficiency
Soil composition and health indicators can guide the type and amount of inputs required, reducing wastage and enhancing efficiency
Depth
Without a deep understanding of the soil's characteristics, any agricultural strategy will lack the base it requires for optimal results
Expert Analysis Matters
Experience and independent analysis is highly valued
Analysis
Proper expert analysis is vital for accurate data interpretation and effective prescription map creation
Reliability
Incorrect analysis can lead to inefficiencies, misapplication of soil treatments, and potential nutritional issues
Experience
Crafting valuable VR maps demands a careful balance, highlighting the importance of experienced insight
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter how soil sampling is done?
- Soil sampling method critical for success
- Targeted approach
- Informed decisions
The method of soil sampling is crucial for obtaining representative and actionable data. Targeted sampling, for instance, focuses on specific areas or zones within a field identified as unique or problematic. This approach provides detailed insights into localized issues, allowing for precise interventions. By tailoring the sampling method to the specific needs and conditions of the land, farmers and agronomists can make more informed decisions, optimizing resources and ensuring soil health.
What value does EM and Gamma Radiometric data add in combination with soil sample data?
- Cost effective predictive modelling
- Practical data solution
- Comprehensive method equals comprehensive results
EM and gamma data, through interpolated maps, offer the kind of predictive modelled coverage that would be far too expensive to conduct with soil sampling. Other methods and theories are available by other service providers, but we adopt a highly critical approach to our own methods, always striving to improve on an already efficient system.
How do other layers like yield maps and satellite imagery benefit from having soil survey data available?
- Understanding plant growth basics
- Soil management is key
- Linking plant growth knowledge and soil management for success
The fundamental reality is that all plant growth is driven by sunlight and water. The only thing under human management to some extent, is the soil, which is the next most important factor in plant growth. Understanding the soils first, is paramount to understanding yield and biomass results, not the other way around. Yield and biomass imagery can be utilised in fertiliser replacement strategies, or as a variable rate application if the season is looking optimistic, then applying more, as long as the forecasts look favourable.
What role does expert analysis play in interpreting data and building prescription maps?
- Balanced and unbiased review of VR prescription
- Expert advice, based on experience and non-emotive data
- Maximise your time and efficiency
Time and efficiency loss can be a major downside if the analysis is not properly conducted. If the data is misinterpreted, there could be a poor zoning map applied for a soil ameliorant product for example, that may not be required, or may be too much, leading to nutritional problems, poor ROI per hectare and wasted time and energy through logistics. Balance is required with variable rate prescriptions, it needs a reasonable approach while being mindful of the pitfalls, therefore experience is really highly sought after.
