Operation in the field: site-specific management using variable rate technologies

Abstract

The last stage in the Precision Agriculture (PA) cycle is implementing the decisions made in the fields or orchards. From the first Precision Ag Corner (New Ag International 64, in Nov-Dec 2016), we described the different stages, equipment, techniques and methodologies to make more informed management decisions. Whenever a non-uniform management strategy decision is made, site-specific management solutions are to be considered. In this issue, we review the different available options to put PA into practice either using conventional machinery or using hi-tech equipment, known as Variable Rate Technologies (VRT). Additionally, new trends are also depicted for future agricultural practices. New Ag International has partnered with the Research Group on AgroICT & Precision Agriculture (GRAP) of the University of Lleida-Agrotecnio Center in Catalonia, Spain. In every issue of the magazine Alexandre Escolà, Jaume Arnó and José A. Martínez-Casasnovas, with our Editorial Team, are putting together an editorial whose ambition is to help the various stakeholders bridge the gap between datanomics and commercial farming!