Development of measurement technologies to increase productivity, nitrogen use efficiency and nitrogen management decisions for grass crops

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Grass yields currently achieved on-farm are less than half of the biological potential for the UK environment. One of the main reasons for low grass yields is the sub-optimal use of nitrogen (N) fertiliser and failure to account for spatial variation in N fertiliser demand within fields. Current methods of estimating fertiliser N requirements are complex and there is no method for variably applying N according to crop needs. This project aims to develop technology used on arable crops (Yara N-Sensor) to measure the N fertiliser requirement of grass crops. This will provide farmers with a simple, automated method of controlling more precisely the amount of N fertiliser applied to their grass crops. The benefits include greater grass yields, greater farm profitability and environmental benefits such as fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a lower risk of nitrate leaching. The consortium consists of Yara (lead & N manufacturer), ADAS (management & research), Precision Decisions (technical), Countrywide Farmers (knowledge transfer), and DLF Trifolium (grass breeders). This complimentary consortium ensures world class technical expertise alongside an effective route for exploitation.