Objectives
The project addresses the benefits of using precision technology to optimise the value of seed potato crops. We will support the use of Tuberzone software to help farmers decisions on when to stop tuber growth to maximise yield, quality and value of Gemson seed potatoes. Data will be gathered remotely using satellite and UAV imagery, to monitor plant numbers, canopy development, and soil moisture, which combined with weather information can predict tuber size, yield and optimum haulm destruction date. To back up predictions, test digs will be made at representative points for each crop. Growers, the co-op and their advisers will benefit from a better understanding of factors influencing crop growth.
Objectives
The project addresses the benefits of using precision technology to optimise the value of seed potato crops. We will support the use of Tuberzone software to help farmers decisions on when to stop tuber growth to maximise yield, quality and value of Gemson seed potatoes. Data will be gathered remotely using satellite and UAV imagery, to monitor plant numbers, canopy development, and soil moisture, which combined with weather information can predict tuber size, yield and optimum haulm destruction date. To back up predictions, test digs will be made at representative points for each crop. Growers, the co-op and their advisers will benefit from a better understanding of factors influencing crop growth.
Activities
The Operational group will meet at least 5 times to guide and direct project progress. We will hold 3 field meetings, one in June, and 2 in July to discuss crop growth. All growers will be trained for accessing their own Tuberzone records online. Test digs will act as a check on Tuberzone crop growth predictions. One in store meeting will be held in November to discuss decisions and use of Tuberzone. Results will be analysed after sale of potatoes in April 2020. A video will be shot charting project activity from start to finish. A final results meeting will be held in May 2020. A survey will be conducted on the uptake of the technology. Results will be shared throughout the project.
Activities
The Operational group will meet at least 5 times to guide and direct project progress. We will hold 3 field meetings, one in June, and 2 in July to discuss crop growth. All growers will be trained for accessing their own Tuberzone records online. Test digs will act as a check on Tuberzone crop growth predictions. One in store meeting will be held in November to discuss decisions and use of Tuberzone. Results will be analysed after sale of potatoes in April 2020. A video will be shot charting project activity from start to finish. A final results meeting will be held in May 2020. A survey will be conducted on the uptake of the technology. Results will be shared throughout the project.
Context
Main drivers are a) for the Co-op and its growers to grow the market for Gemson potatoes and b) for these to be grown as efficiently and profitably as possible.
Project details
- Main funding source
- Rural development 2014-2020 for Operational Groups
- Rural Development Programme
- 2014UK06RDRP003 United Kingdom - Rural Development Programme (Regional) - Scotland
Location
- Main geographical location
- Angus and Dundee City
- Other geographical location
- Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire, Inverness & Nairn and Moray, Badenoch & Strathspey
€ 83946
Total budget
Total contributions from EAFRD, national co-financing, additional national financing and other financing.
Project keyword
- Aquaculture
- Arable crops
- Organic farming
- Agro-ecology
- Crop rotation/crop diversification/dual-purpose or mixed cropping
- Equipment and machinery
- Fodder and feed
- Outdoor horticulture and woody crops (incl. viticulture, olives, fruit, ornamentals)
- Greenhouse crops
- Soil
- Supply chain, marketing and consumption
- Competitiveness/new business models
- Farm diversification
Contacts
Project coordinator
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Iain Riddell, SAC Consulting
Project coordinator