Aerial photography and geo-spatial information assist in collecting precise field information. Yield monitoring, optical sensors and mapping allow the grower to monitor and respond to crop needs as they grow, increasing productivity. Variable rate applicators save money on fertilizer and reduce nutrient runoff that harms water quality.
Presenters at the forum include:
- Dr. Bobby Grisso, professor of Biological Systems Engineering at Virginia Tech, speaking on "Usage of Geo-Spatial Information and Application to Agriculture."
- Dr. Craig Daughtry of the U.S. Department of Agriculture will speak on "Spectral Properties of Crops and Soils."
- Representatives of the Mosaic Company, Dr. Ron Olson and Dr. Dan Froehlich, will present "Variable Rate Nutrient Systems."
- "Aerial Photography and Field Data Collection" will be presented by Marty Campfield, a consultant with NSIA, Inc.
- Scott Quinn of Farmsite Technologies will speak on "Yield Monitoring and Mapping."
- Maryland farmer Trey Hill, of Harborview Farms, will share his experience with precision agriculture.
The day will conclude with an economic perspective by Andrew Martin of Pennsylvania State University and a panel discussion by all the day's presenters.
The forum is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Patuxent National Wildlife Visitors Center in Laurel, Md.
Registration forms are available by calling 1-410-841-9595 or on the MDA Web site www:mda.state.md.us. Look for Nutrient Management, 2005 Schedule of Nutrient Management Classes.
Six continuing education credits are offered for the day.
For further information, contact Sandra M. Thomas, training coordinator for the Nutrient Management Program, at 1-410-841-5959.
