Lincoln, Neb. – Farmers at the Center du Nebraska turn to satellite technology to optimize the use of fertilizers and improve water quality, a movement that could transform agricultural practices in the region.
Lon Bohn, a local farmer, explained the advantages of technology, saying: “real -time measurement in the field of the use of nitrate fertilizers” is now possible thanks to satellites.
Anthony Seim, another farmer, noted that satellite imagery helps determine the optimal time to apply nitrogen, allowing him to use 25% of nitrogen fertilizer less
“More security putting the right amount at the right time,” said Seim.
A section of 11 counties along the Platte river is known for its productive agricultural land, with a million irrigated acres. The Central Platte Natural Resources District (NRD) has implemented rules to prevent excessive use of water and fertilizers. While precision agriculture technology has already improved irrigation, satellite technology is now ready to revolutionize the application of fertilizers.
“The money saved is better for our groundwater, also increases healthier crops,” said Seim, highlighting the multiple advantages of technology.
Scientists have tools to help farmers in profitability while protecting groundwater
The initiative is supported by University Research and has now led to a startup called Sentinel Fretigation which uses satellites to provide real -time needs of farmers. This NRD shares costs with farmers who adopt technology.
Lyndon Vogt from Central Platte NRD said: “The majority of our producers who try it for a year, we see them adding additional hectares the following year. Probably one of the greatest things to help the quality of the water since the advent of the pivot. “
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The Nebraska Extension now suggests that farmers use nutrients based on sensors in its official recommendations which also include advice for the season of fall fertilizer applications and apply most nitrogen fertilizers in season.
The UNT study finds that high levels of nitrate can activate uranium in groundwater
While certain regions of the CPNRD have experienced improvements, others are faced with stricter regulations as nitrate levels are increasing, a problem linked to child cancer.
Farmers like Bohn are committed to taking up these challenges. “It will be a slow process,” said Bohn. “It took a long time to get here, it will take a long time to go out, but we see a technology that really works.”