Precision agriculture

In precision farming, a method of site- differentiated and targeted management of agricultural land is understood. The aim of the German to " precision agriculture ", it is going to take into account the differences of soil and profitability within a field. Alternative names are: Part Field-based agriculture, part shock management, computer-aided Farming (CAF ), Local resource management.

The positions of the machines are recognized on the parcels and capture the machine again and document the characteristics (eg income) during the machining process. This data is then analyzed and the subsequent soil management, for example, the fertilizer can be adjusted accordingly. This management is site- specific named because within a large field ( shock) the effects of different soils may be considered.

The small-scale soil and (plant) inventory management allows a more targeted seed or fertilizer and can lead to savings in resources and an environmental relief through reduced use of herbicides and mineral fertilizers. The data collection also allows the use of " digital maps " ( geographic information systems, GIS ) for planning of future management measures and evidence has already been successful management measures to government agencies in the context of incentive measures.

The machinery and equipment for precision farming use for determining position within a field, as a rule Navigation systems ( sensor controlled ) and a GPS receiver as well as special equipment for a site specific application of resources. Currently working around eight percent of farms with precision farming.

First steps are the determination of soil properties and nutrient contents of the individual sub-areas by scoring and soil samples. Of advantage are brand-independent communications systems such as the ISOBUS.