Due to climate change, agricultural producers are dealing with high climatic variability that is leading to production losses and low product quality. A very important problem is the early flowering caused by the hot winters, which increases the risk of frost damage.
Based on more than 25 years of experience in the United States, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Latin America in crops like almonds, walnuts, pistachios, vineyards, cherries, peaches, apples, blueberries or olives, an innovative Risk Studies and Frost Control service has been developed.
These studies are based on the accurate analysis of the microclimates of each plantation using a unique software that maps the cold air flows in each farm, taking into account the topography (obtained through accurate digital terrain models), and implementing a temperature measurement campaign for a month. The regional and local cold air flows that explain and determine frost damage are consequently detected.
Microclimate map
The result is actionable advice for the producer, taking into account the precise design of the passive measures for each farm as the main combat measure (selection of varieties, row management, soil management, curtains to divert cold air flows, etc.). If it becomes necessary to implement active measures, these are designed specifically for each farm and its microclimates (Wind Machines, sprinkler irrigation, SIS system, etc.). Frost control systems already set up and which need an upgrade are also optimized.
The study is ideal for recently planted farms or those soon to be planted, as well as for those that are no more than 5 years old, although it can also be applied to already established farms to optimize the frost control systems already set up.
Installation of a sensor in Portugal.
In Spain and Portugal, more than 15 studies have already been carried out for various regions, climates and crops, including almonds in the Veracruz Ventures plantation in Portugal, walnut trees in Ribera de Duero, peaches in Lleida (Finca Esteve) and cherry trees in the Cinca valley.
It also has experience in risk analysis and frost control for agricultural properties available to buy/sell or rent, offering very valuable and actionable information for the purpose of supporting the purchase decision.
The Climate Box is the company that markets this innovative service worldwide. In Spain / Portugal, the SATGARDEN company, with extensive experience in Spanish agriculture, offers The Climate Box services exclusively.
For more information:
Eduardo Enrich
SATGARDEN
info@satgarden.com
www.satgarden.com