Precision Farming

Module Description/Aims

The student will experiment with more advanced Precision Farming concepts theoretically and practically The student will manage theoretical GNSS operating principle and practical approach to georeferenced data acquisition Theoretical and practical approach to assess and compare remote and proximal sensing. Practical approach to selecting relevant GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and geostatistical tools. The student will analyse mechanical and technical consequences on agricultural machines for variable rate applications.
The student will judge, evaluate and rate various sensors and decision support systems in livestock farming

Syllabus Content

Lecture (40 hours):

- Precision farming concept:

Definition and explanations of precision farming concept.

- GNSS:

Presentation of GNSS principles, link between field work and positioning precision.

- Data acquisition tools:

Knowledge on sensors and devices for agronomical data acquisition, proximal and remote sensing, in-field acquisition.

Whorkshop (30 hours):

- Variable rate application:

Technical consequences of variable rate application on agricultural machines, variable rate spraying and fertilizing.

- Livestock farming:

Sensors and decision support systems for livestock farming.

 

Reading List

Book title:

  • Precision Agriculture, J. Stafford, A. Werner, Wageningen Academic, 2003, 1st edition (ISBN 9789076998213)

Journals, Website:

  • Computer and Electronics in Agriculture, John K. Schueller (Chair Editor), Spyros Fountas, Yong He, Angela Ribeiro, Daniel Schmoldt, Stephen Symons, Qin Zhang, Elsevier;
  • Biosystem Engineering, Editor-in-Chief: Dr. W. Day, Elsevier;
  • Remote sensing, open source

 

Teaching & Learning Strategies

This module involves development of theoretical and practical skills. Theoretical knowledge will be taught using classical lectures and flipped classrooms. Practical work will be carried out in fields and on computers.
Lectures will be delivered using Prepared Handouts, White Board, PowerPoint Presentations

Assessments

  • Two Practical Exam


Students who do not possess a passing grade or the required attendance at the semesters end will be required to sit a computer based exam. In the event a student fails module due to not meeting 80% attendance at practical/workshop sessions outside of extenuating circumstances, then repeat attend is required at next available offering of the module.