Integrated Proximal Sensing of Soil and Crop

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Proximal sensing of soils and crops is a growing area of science and technology that uses sensing systems to obtain information either close to, or in direct contact with, the target. When deployed properly, proximal sensing systems provide high-density data on the physical, chemical and biological attributes of soil and crops. These attributes help us to better understand the changes in soil conditions influencing crop growth. Accounting for this variability over space and time reduces the negative environmental impact and increases profitability. In recent years, proximal sensing technology has been used to increase efficiency in the use of fertilizers, water, and other production inputs as well as to assess the environment. The main problem is that most sensors respond to more than one agronomic property, which frequently complicates the decision-making process. Sensor fusion is an emerging concept that relies on combining data from alternative sources to increase the certainty of the information obtained. Although appealing, the concept is poorly understood and requires substantial development in both theory and potential applications. In this proposal, a unique methodology to integrate the most promising and cost-effective sensing technologies is discussed. Conceptually different, commercially available, proximal soil/crop sensors will be used simultaneously as well as integrated with our recently developed sensor prototypes. Also, proximal sensing data that includes ground elevation will be integrated with remotely sensed data (satellite or airborne imagery). The interdisciplinary and multipurpose nature of this approach promises an endless array of potential uses. While demonstrating and analyzing certain applications, the ultimate goal of this program is to develop a strong and reliable dataflow structure that can be adopted easily across many disciplines in agriculture and in the management of natural resources.