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Application of Thermal Infrared Remote Sensing for Quantitative Evaluation of Crop CharacteristicsEvidence suggests that thermal infrared emittance (TIR) at the field-scale is largely a function of the integrated crop/soil moisture continuum. Because soil moisture dynamics largely determine crop yields in non-irrigated farming (85 % of Alabama farms are non-irrigated), TIR may be an effective method of mapping within field crop yield variability, and possibly, absolute yields. The ability to map yield variability at juvenile growth stages can lead to improved soil fertility and pest management, as well as facilitating the development of economic forecasting. Researchers at GHCC/MSFC/NASA and Auburn University are currently investigating the role of TIR in site-specific agriculture. Site-specific agriculture (SSA), or precision farming, is a method of crop production in which zones and soils within a field are delineated and managed according to their unique properties. The goal of SSA is to improve farm profits and reduce environmental impacts through targeted agrochemical applications. The foundation of SSA depends upon the spatial and temporal characterization of soil and crop properties through the creation of management zones. Management zones can be delineated using: 1) remote sensing (RS) data, 2) conventional soil testing and soil mapping, and 3) yield mapping. Portions of this research have concentrated on using remote sensing data to map yield variability in corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) crops. Remote sensing data have been collected for several fields in the Tennessee Valley region at various crop growth stages during the last four growing seasons. Preliminary results of this study will be presented.
Document ID
20020049827
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Shaw, J.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Luvall, J.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Rickman, D.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Mask, P.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Wersinger, J.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Sullivan, D.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Arnold, James E.
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2002
Subject Category
Geosciences (General)
Meeting Information
Meeting: Army Workshop on Multi/Hyperspectral Technology and Applications
Location: Redstone Arsenal, AL
Country: United States
Start Date: February 5, 2002
End Date: February 7, 2002
Sponsors: Department of the Army
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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