Soil sampling for more sustainable farms
The system uses a computer program and GPS technology that measure data specific to the region and categorizes them into colored maps. Each region requires a certain amount of water which is found using testing soil samples. While it's an expensive investment, at about $15,000 per year, he believes that he makes it back in production.
"The idea is that we're getting that back through production and by not overusing materials in areas where it's not needed," Jones said. The maps allow Jones to, as he says, "do more with less." Using the data he can use only what is needed while still providing the same output.
The technology that Jones is using to help him grow potatoes can be used on any other crop as well. It's already widely used in other states for corn and soybean crops, said Dennis Coleman, crop consultant for Crop Production Services.
source: heraldtribune.com
