Soil mapping; Fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies.pdf
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The document discusses soil mapping and fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies, emphasizing its importance in precision agriculture for optimizing crop production and resource use. By employing tools like GIS and remote sensing, farmers can create detailed soil maps and use this data for variable-rate fertilization, precision irrigation, and improved soil management practices. The overall benefits include increased productivity, cost efficiency, sustainability, and enhanced decision-making in agricultural practices.
Soil mapping; Fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies.pdf
- 1. Soil mapping; Fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies Geoinformatics and Nanotechnology and Precision Farming 2(1+1) Course Teachers Dr. M. KUMARESAN, Ph.D. (Hort.) School of Agriculture Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Pallavaram, Chennai - 600 117
- 2. Soil mapping refers to the process of collecting and analyzing spatial data about the soil properties of a given area In the context of precision agriculture, soil mapping is essential for understanding the variability of soil characteristics across a field and enables more efficient, targeted management practices that optimize crop production and resource use By identifying the specific needs of different soil zones within a field, soil mapping empowers farmers to make data-driven decisions, ultimately enhancing productivity, sustainability, and profitability Soil mapping
- 3. Soil mapping • Soil map is a geographical representation showing diversity of soil types and soil properties (soil pH, textures, organic matter, depths of horizons etc.) in the area of interest • Soil maps are most commonly used for land evaluation, spatial planning, agricultural extension, environmental protection and similar projects
- 4. WG-DSM International WORKING GROUP ON DIGITAL SOIL MAPPING (WG- DSM) defines digital soil mapping as "thecreation and the population of a geographically referenced soil databases generated at a given resolution by using field and laboratory observation methods coupled with environmental data through quantitative relationships Digital Soil Mapping (DSM) also referred to as predictive soil mapping or pedometric mapping
- 5. Advanced spaceborne thermal emission and reflection radiometer (ASTER) : Global Digital Elevation Model (GDEM) Digital soil mapping (DSM) integrates geostatistical, data mining and GIS (geographic information system) tools. Applying DSM methods makes the elaboration of target-specific soil maps with improved and specific thematic, spatial and temporal accuracy
- 6. Spatial data and geospatial technologies can be used to create fertilizer recommendations for specific areas of a field. This can help farmers improve crop yields, reduce input costs, and protect the environment Geospatial technology uses tools like GIS (Geographic Information System), GPS (Global Positioning System) and Remote Sensing for geographic mapping and analysis These tools capture spatial information about objects, events and phenomena (indexed to their geographical location on earth).
- 7. Toolsusedinsoilfertilitytestingforprecisionfarming Soil probes: Used to analyze soil quality and fertility by measuring parameters like nutrient levels, pH, and organic matter content Electrochemical sensors: Detect ions like sodium and chloride to warn farmers of crop stress or damage caused by salinity Drones: Use multispectral remote sensing to track soil quality indicators after seeds have been planted Portable spectrometers: Measure soil fertility indicators like clay, organic carbon, pH value, and cation exchange capacity GPS-guided Equipment: GPS systems are widely used for accurate soil sampling, mapping, and nutrient application. Ion-Selective Electrodes (ISE): These sensors are used to measure specific ions (e.g., nitrate, ammonium, phosphate) in the soil, providing real-time data on soil nutrient levels. Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectrometers: NIR technology is used to analyze the chemical composition of soil, including its fertility status.
- 8. TechniquesforSoilMapping Soil Sampling and Laboratory Analysis Traditional Soil Sampling: method involves collecting soil samples from different parts of a field and sending them to a laboratory for analysis. Soil samples are tested for parameters like pH, organic matter content, nutrient levels (N, P, K), texture, and salinity. Limitations: Although this method provides accurate data, it is time- consuming, labor-intensive, and offers a limited spatial resolution because only a few sample points are collected in large fields.
- 9. TechniquesforSoilMapping Electromagnetic Induction (EMI) and Electrical Resistivity EMI Sensors: These sensors measure the electrical conductivity of the soil, which is influenced by properties such as moisture content, salinity, and texture. Variations in conductivity can provide insights into the soil's texture and nutrient availability. Resistivity Probes: These tools measure the soil's resistance to electrical current, which also varies with soil composition and moisture content. This method is useful for mapping soil salinity or identifying areas with poor drainage or low fertility.
- 10. TechniquesforSoilMapping Remote Sensing and GIS Satellite and Drone Imagery: Satellites and drones equipped with multispectral or hyperspectral sensors can detect soil characteristics indirectly by analyzing spectral reflectance. For example, variations in the soil's color, moisture content, and organic matter can be identified using remote sensing data. Geographic Information Systems (GIS): GIS integrates and analyzes spatial data, such as soil property maps, historical crop yields, weather patterns, and other environmental factors, to create complete soil maps..
- 11. TechniquesforSoilMapping Global Positioning System (GPS) GPS is used to georeference soil data accurately, ensuring that soil maps are associated with specific locations in the field By combining GPS with soil sampling and remote sensing data, farmers can create precise, location-specific maps that identify soil variability across different field zones.
- 12. TechniquesforSoilMapping Soil Profiling with Sensors Penetrometers: These devices measure soil compaction by pressing a probe into the soil. Soil compaction can impact root growth, water infiltration, and overall crop productivity Nutrient Sensors: Advanced sensors can measure the concentration of soil nutrients in real-time. These sensors can be mounted on agricultural equipment, such as tractors or harvesters, to map nutrient levels across a field
- 13. Applicationsof SoilMappingin PrecisionAgriculture 1. Variable-Rate Fertilization (VRF) Soil fertility maps enable farmers to apply fertilizers at variable rates across the field based on nutrient levels, reducing over-application in areas with high fertility and increasing application in areas with nutrient deficiencies. This helps maximize crop yield while minimizing input costs and environmental impact. Example: Fertilizer is applied at lower rates in areas where soil tests show sufficient nutrient levels, and at higher rates where soil fertility is low
- 17. Applicationsof SoilMappingin PrecisionAgriculture 2. Precision Irrigation Soil moisture maps help farmers identify areas of the field that require more water (e.g., sandy soils) and those that need less (e.g., clay-rich soils). This enables targeted irrigation, preventing water wastage and ensuring optimal crop growth. Example: In areas with low moisture retention, drip irrigation or soil moisture sensors may be used to deliver water directly to the root zone
- 18. Thermal images represent temperature color ramp
- 19. Applicationsof SoilMappingin PrecisionAgriculture 3. Site-Specific Management By identifying different soil zones within a field (e.g., low fertility zones, areas prone to compaction), farmers can implement site-specific management practices, such as changing planting depths, selecting appropriate crop varieties, and adjusting tillage or irrigation practices Example: On fields with varying textures, farmers might use deeper tillage in sandy soils to improve water retention, while using shallow tillage in loamy soils to preserve moisture
- 20. Applicationsof SoilMappingin PrecisionAgriculture 4. Soil Erosion and Conservation Planning Erosion-prone areas can be identified using soil maps that include topography and soil texture data. By understanding the potential for soil erosion, farmers can implement soil conservation practices, such as contour planting, terracing, or planting cover crops. Example: Farmers can adjust their practices in areas prone to erosion, such as planting cover crops to hold soil in place or using reduced tillage techniques to minimize soil disturbance.
- 21. Applicationsof SoilMappingin PrecisionAgriculture 5. Improved Soil Health and Sustainability Regular soil mapping provides insights into changes in soil health over time, such as improving organic matter levels, reducing compaction, or addressing nutrient imbalances. These insights can lead to more sustainable agricultural practices that reduce the need for synthetic inputs and improve long-term soil productivity Example: Regular soil tests and mapping can guide the use of organic amendments (e.g., compost or manure) and other practices that improve soil health without reducing natural resources.
- 22. Benefitsof SoilMappingin PrecisionAgriculture Increased Productivity: By understanding the variability of soil conditions, farmers can adapt their practices to the specific needs of different areas of the field, maximizing crop yields. Cost Efficiency: Soil mapping allows for targeted application of fertilizers, water, and other inputs, reducing waste and lowering costs. Sustainability: Precision soil management reduces the overuse of fertilizers, water, and other resources, helping to promote sustainable farming practices. Environmental Protection: By applying inputs more efficiently and reducing waste, soil mapping can help minimize the environmental impact of farming, including nutrient runoff and water pollution. Enhanced Decision-Making: Soil mapping provides farmers with the data needed to make more informed decisions on crop selection, planting, fertilization, irrigation, and other management practices.
- 23. Fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies Fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies involves the use of satellite imagery, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and soil sensors to determine the precise fertilizer requirements for crops based on field variability. In precision farming, fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies plays a crucial role in optimizing the use of fertilizers to improve crop yields, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. This approach involves leveraging spatial data, remote sensing, and variable rate technology (VRT) to make precise fertilizer application decisions based on site- specific conditions
- 24. Fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies Database generated from the soil mapping process can be linked and integrated with a software tool called ‘Fertilizer recommendation tool’ to generate soil and crop specific fertilizer recommendation based on well- established mathematical functions Major factors to be considered are soil fertility levels (macro nutrients like N, P & K and micro nutrients like zinc, copper, manganese and Iron) and soil problems like sodicity and calcarousness. Parameters viz., doses of nitrogenous, phosphatic and potassium fertilizers based on the type of crop and area of crops to be cultivated
- 25. Fertilizer recommendation using geospatial technologies Key Steps: Soil Mapping: Remote sensing and soil sampling create detailed maps of soil properties like pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter. This helps identify areas with deficiencies or excess nutrients, guiding fertilizer application. NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index): Satellite or drone-based NDVI measurements provide insights into crop health and vigor. Low NDVI values may indicate nutrient deficiencies, triggering targeted fertilizer application. Variable Rate Technology (VRT): Using GPS and GIS, VRT allows farmers to apply fertilizers at varying rates across a field based on the specific nutrient needs of different zones. This ensures optimal use of fertilizers, reducing waste and environmental runoff. Fertilizer Prescription Maps: GIS software creates prescription maps that recommend specific fertilizer amounts for different zones within a field. These maps are integrated with tractor guidance systems to apply fertilizers accurately. Real-Time Data Collection: Soil sensors and climate data provide real-time information on soil moisture and temperature, which can influence fertilizer uptake. This data helps adjust fertilizer recommendations dynamically during the growing season.
- 26. Technologies Used for Fertilizer Recommendation Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Used to map and analyze spatial data such as soil fertility, crop health, and field variations Global Positioning System (GPS): Provides location-specific data for precise fertilizer application using VRT Remote Sensing (Satellites, Drones, UAVs): Collect data on crop health, soil conditions, and field variability Variable Rate Technology (VRT): Enables differential fertilizer application based on real-time field data Decision Support Systems (DSS): Process data and generate fertilizer recommendations based on soil, crop, and environmental conditions