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Sat Nav for Soils (Satellite Technology Boosts Farm Productivity)
Ken Rundle interviews Farmer Robert Neill (opens in new window)
Satellites and soil may not seem to have anything in common, but as farmers attending a recent event near Jedburgh discovered, by satellite mapping their fields they can boost farm productivity. The event, organised by SAC and hosted by Robert and Jac Neill at Upper Nisbet Farm, was part of the Scottish Government’s “Farming for a Better Climate” initiative.
The message was clear, getting the best from farm soils means making the most of expensive soil nutrients. Waste not only costs money, it pollutes the environment and adds to greenhouse gas emissions. The Neill’s agronomist, Andy Hindhaugh, of local company McCreath, Simpson & Prentice, outlined the importance of getting the right soil pH and balancing nutrients like phosphate and potash. In support SAC’s consultants showed visitors how to use the free, Scottish Government Scottish Government PLANET nutrient management programme.
However what many of those attending the event had come to learn more about was “precision farming”, using the latest technology to apply to the crop only what it needs. Aidan Monaghan from SOYL outlined the basic principals of using GPS to create the basic field maps to which management details like soil analysis or crop yields can be added. Over time the information can automatically “tell” the machinery where to spread fertilisers or spray pesticides. Aiden was supported by Rod Armour of “Soilessentials” who explained about the software and hardware needed.
The Scottish Government has set tough greenhouse gas emission reduction targets for Scotland to meet, including agriculture. Through the Farming for a Better Climate Initiative and its Climate Change Focus Farms, like Upper Nisbet, local farmers are developing ways of cutting greenhouse gasses that also cut costs and maximise farm business efficiency.