2010-03-16
Hyperspectral technology ideal for precision farming
With hyperspectral survey technology having reached groundbreaking dimensions, it can now be applied to most industries and almost any project requiring land surveys. In recent months, Southern Mapping Company has performed surveys, even for farm owners, with data produced to be used for farm management.Successful farm management requires adequate knowledge and information about physical resources available and combining this with financial and human resources. Proper handling of all these resources will lead to favourable production and attain the ultimate end-result: profitability. Whether the farm involves working with livestock, fruit and vegetables or any other type of produce, aspects such as soil structure, soil microbiology, crop growth, weed growth, pests, diseases and ecology play an important part in the success or failure of the farm. Hyperspectral surveys can provide up-to-date and accurate data regarding all these issues.
Says Alex Fortescue, Remote Sensing & GIS Manager for Southern Mapping Company, “Farming is an important activity that boosts South Africa’s economy as well as the development of the country in general. It is also strategic for Africa as a resource for global food supplies. Not many countries are in the fortunate position that South Africa enjoys, to partake in nearly all agricultural activities, from livestock to fruit, vegetables and grains. Our country’s versatility of climates counts in our favour, and although there are also some challenges to be considered, it can be easily managed through the use of advanced hyperspectral surveys”.
About Southern Mapping Company
SMC provides topographic surveys and mapping to assist a variety of industries and sectors. These include civil engineering and infrastructure development, mineral explorations and mine management, environmental planning and rehabilitation, and urban and agricultural planning. The company operates worldwide, but specialises throughout Africa. SMC’s staff were amongst the first in the world to combine Lidar with aerial photography and now have added hyperspectral to their product offering. For more information about Southern Mapping Company please visit www.southernmapping.com.