Site specific farming has been possible utilizing GPS technology and geographic information systems (GIS). Using these two technologies togetSher allows large amounts of information to be efficiently manipulated and analyzed. Farm planning, soil sampling, field mapping, and other critical data can be analyzed for precision application of farm inputs such as lime, fertilizer and seed to enhance field yield increases and efficiency. Yield data at harvesting time can also be analyzed for further yield efficiently for next years crop. Using GPS systems allows farmers to work in any light conditions when visibility of the human eye is replaced by technology.
GPS technology has allowed farmers to adjust field inputs as needed in the field for optimum yields at the least amount of cost. With the availability of GPS technology the most effective inputs and application of fertilizer, lime, seed, pesticides, fungicides and water can be delivered at optimum time for the most efficient yields. It also creates a more environmental friendly farm.
GPS technology has changed the way animal and crop inputs are used for more efficient agriculture. Not only has it changed past practices, future GPS technology advances on agriculture will keep changing the way farms are managed.
Not only has field practices have changed but the advances in GPS technology is changing the way equipment is managed and operated. By utilizing GPS mapping, tractors and equipment are traveling precise routes in the field for all operations using equipment. Not only are trips reduced but inputs are reduced because the same area does not get treated more than is required. In the near future equipment will operate in fields without any human being aboard. GPS guidance allows precision farming like robots have allowed the reduction and elimination of humans in factories.
GPS technology has been a big advancement for agriculture production. As GPS technology advances agriculture will be able to utilize these advances to more efficiently produce food and fiber for a growing world.
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