1991-1993 1994 1995 1996 1997-1999 2000 2001

Soil and forage samples were collected from every 1 square foot area at two sites to determine the resolution at which significant differences in soil properties could be documented. These experiments helped to show that each 10 sq.ft. in agricultural fields need to be treated as separate farms. The same 10 sq.ft. that has the highest yield one year, may have the lowest yield in an ensuing year. For this reason, in season treatment is necessary whereby the influence of the environment is integrated into treatment application.

As a part of a class project with Dick Whitney, John Solie and Marvin Stone, BIOEN students constructed the first variable N rate applicator using a C02 pressurized system (the 747).

Following the 1995 crop season, Dr. Stone, and Dr. Solie developed a new 'reflectance' sensor requested by our agronomic team that resolved problems encountered with time of day, and cloud cover (3rd order sensor, left, reflectance sensor right). The sensor was an incredible accomplishment since it provided calibrated readings (measured NDVI of 0.7 at one location would be basically the same as 0.7 at another site).

Erna Lukina, and Wade Thomason conducted extensive field experiments looking at changes in sensor readings with changing, growth stage, variety, row spacing, and N rates. Estimates of bi om as s were found to be accurate regardless of changing variety, and row spacing. Increased N rates, and altered growth stages resulted in expected changes in sensor readings.