Precision Agriculture in Forages Jeff Gaither

Introduction Precision Ag is an agricultural concept relying on the existence of in-field variability. (Wikipedia) A forage crop is a seeded crop, often introduced and managed using agronomic principles

Management Needs Use Crop Weeds Insects Nutrients

Use Primarily used as a feedstock, can be used as wildlife habitat or erosion control. Different crop uses require different management needs. example: corn grown for silage. Wheat grown for hay.

Type of Crop Different types of crops need different management decisions. example: No need to apply nitrogen to alfalfa.

Weeds Weeds in forage crops are not usually not a big deal, however, some need to be controlled. Many weeds have value as a forage. example: Sericea Lespedeza, older plants are less palatable and produce tannins that do not taste good. Annual 3-awn can cause throat problems in cattle.

Insects Just as in row crops insects can become a problem depending on crop. example: Blister beetles in alfalfa.

Nutrients Forages, just like row crops, need nutrients. Forages, however, are sometimes not economically feasible to treat.

Weeds Weeds may need to be managed. Site specific management can be used if weeds are grouped in a “bunch”. Site specific management reduces cost of spraying.

Weed Seeker Spot Spray –Row crop forages Merrilong Pastoral Company –16% weed coverage/paddock –Large savings per year (row crop situation such as wheat)

Crop Optics Spray Rig

Insects Mapping –Locating and marking of ‘hot spots’. –Spot treatment –Remote sensing of potential areas that might attract insects. High organic matter High moisture

Nutrients Most forage crops are not economically feasible to treat. Some are. Hay production is becoming more profitable due to regional droughts. 2 years ago-round bale of low quality hay sold for $60-90.

Nutrients Wheat Corn for silage Bermudagrass Green Seeker Nitrogen Rich Strips and Ramps Soil Testing –Can increase yield at reduced input cost.

Green Seeker

Opinion I think that detailed management of forages will only be economical in a commercial setting.

Decisions Usually mixed communities –Are you encouraging cool season grasses, warm season grasses, legumes, or mixture. Ultimately –What are you wanting?

Questions?

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