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Evaluation of PRS(TM) Probe Technology and Model for Variable Rate Fertilizer Application in Hummocky Fields in Saskatchewan
K. Greer, J. Burns, E. Bremer
Western Ag Innovations
Increasing net returns from variable-rate fertilizer application requires efficient use of reliable knowledge about fertilizer response variation within a field.  Based on PRSTM probe technology developed at the University of Saskatchewan, Western Ag Innovations/Lab provides growers with a simulation modeling tool, the PRSTM Nutrient Forecaster, that allow growers to assess the cost-benefit of a particular fertilizer and/or cropping decision on a field-by-field basis.  The potential to increase net returns by varying fertilizer application within a field was evaluated in studies at four hummocky fields in Saskatchewan over a three-year period.  Fertilizer prescriptions were developed at a grid spacing of 12 m using PRSTM measurements and estimated moisture at selected topographic positions within a field.  An algorithm was developed to deliver four nutrients with two machine-compatible blends: nutrients were applied within 3% of optimum rates.  Evaluation based on backcast yield estimates indicated that this approach increased net returns by $10 to $50 per acre.
Keyword: Simulation model, Optimization, Validation
K. Greer    J. Burns    E. Bremer    Modeling and Geo-statistics    Poster    2012
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