By Blake Jackson
Cornell University's Nutrient Management Spear Program is helping farms achieve better yields through field-specific data analysis. Launched eight years ago, the program collects and analyzes farm yield data to identify high, low, and variable-producing areas within a field. This information, visualized through zone maps, empowers farmers to make informed decisions about resource allocation and optimize crop production.
The program's core principle lies in understanding individual farm variability. "One farm discovered that extra nitrogen wasn't improving yields in low-producing zones," explains Quirine Ketterings, head of the Spear program. "It's often more beneficial to invest in high-performing areas."
So far, zone maps have been created for around 40 New York farms. However, the process is labor-intensive, prompting the development of a web-based software tool. This application, expected by mid-2024, will streamline the process for farms with existing zone maps, allowing them to measure the effectiveness of implemented changes.
The software generates "confidence charts" that indicate the likelihood of a positive or negative response to specific treatments in each zone. "A high confidence level (80% or above) tells farmers what benefits or losses they can expect," explains Ketterings.
To create accurate zone maps, a minimum of three years of consistent yield data is required. During this period, farmers should avoid experimenting with variable applications across the field.
Zone identification relies on a farm's average yield and its variability. This data is used to categorize different field sections into quadrants:
Q1: Above-average, stable yield
Q4: Below-average, stable yield
Q2: Above average, but unstable yield
Q3: Below-average, but unstable yield
It's crucial to remember that these zones are unique to each farm.
While a future tool aiming to eliminate the need for in-house calculations is in development, Ketterings emphasizes the importance of variable-rate equipment to utilize the program's findings effectively. Precise application based on minute variations within a field is key to maximizing results.
However, the program's foundation lies in the value of data collection itself. "Just measuring yield and understanding the data is hugely beneficial," says Ketterings. "This principle of informed decision-making through measurement is the cornerstone of everything we do."
By providing farms with data-driven insights into their field variability, the Cornell Nutrient Management Spear Program empowers them to optimize resource allocation, improve yields, and ultimately achieve greater agricultural sustainability.
Photo Credit: cornell-university
Categories: New York, Education