Summary

A medium size farm in Bulgaria specializes in the production of grain crops. Half of its land is used for field trials of seeds and plant protection products in cooperation with a research institute. The farmer needed to upgrade his equipment as to be able to better comply with the prescribed trial methodology for the trials. 

EAFRD support helped the farmer to purchase the new machinery and equipment for precision agriculture and the trials. Funds from measure M121 was used for purchasing a tractor, a GPS navigation kit, a computerized device for precision seeding and fertilizing, a plow and other inventory. Also training of personnel was carried out on how to use the new equipment.

Results

3% to 7% less inputs of seeds, fertilizers, plant protection products are needed;

Less waste and losses due to mechanical failures;

Higher reliability of the field test was achieved;

The income from the trial parcels increase due to faster seedling turnover and  improved yields;

One new job was created.