March 10, 2016
This image is an example of the visual data that can be derived from remote sensing techniques. The top picture represents a true-color image, the middle an infrared image and the bottom an elevation image. Image courtesy of US National Ocean Service.
Successfully feeding a global population of eight billion by 2030 is estimated to need 30% to 45% more water, according to the World Bank Group. It’s clear that we need to avoid wastage of the supplies we already have. Innovations in technology may well provide the key.
Remote sensing uses satellite imagery to scan the earth to collect data in the form of statistics or images. Not only can it give insights into where and how an area of land fits into the larger land mass, it also provides a new perspective on how farmers can better care for their crops.
Through satellite imagery and advanced agronomic modelling, remote sensing technology plays a key role in assessing more precisely the demand for water as well as pinpointing how we can use it more efficiently.
One company that uses remote sensing to help ensure sustainable agricultural practices is HydroBio®. In a recent partnership with Monsanto®, both organisations have embarked on a new goal to use remote sensing tools to improve supply chain productivity and food security to help grow a more sustainable agricultural system globally.
“The HydroBio® irrigation management platform increases productivity and conserves resources,” said Barrett Mooney co-founder and CEO of HydroBio®. “We are excited to be expanding our impact through collaboration with a global leader in agriculture.”
But what does this mean in practice?
Satellite data is streamed to technical experts. They analyse it to assess the extent of crop water usage by farmers, then advise them on how to conserve their water while maximising crop yields.
Through an agreement with Monsanto’s® Global Supply Chain division, HydroBio® will be providing crop water analytics across four continents. The plan is to educate field managers on where, when and how much water to apply by monitoring fields throughout 10 countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, France, Hungary, Italy, Mexico, Romania, South Africa and USA).
“The ability to remotely sense crop water needs and introduce variable rate irrigation technology in our seed production fields will be key to achieving our sustainable production goal,” said Giovanni Piccinni, Global Production Sustainability Lead at Monsanto®.
Monsanto has also partnered with others in the AquaTEK® project. AquaTEK® began in 2009 when Monsanto® began looking for ways to improve irrigation efficiency in Italy — a significantly water scarce environment. Combining drip irrigation and soil moisture data in maize production, AquaTEK® also provides training for farmers in Italy on the importance of water management in agriculture.
Going forward HydroBio® will also support farmers with training on how to use remote sensing technology to accurately and more precisely water crops.
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