The SOILQUEST system acquires soil EC data from two depths simultaneously. This provides conductivity maps from 0-30cm and 0-90cm. These are used to generate finely detailed and highly accurate soil maps. These maps are then used to create management zones based upon soil type. This allows accurate mapping of all factors affected by soil type.
The first benefits on most farms are the accurate mapping of pH, P & K within fields allowing better targeting of these inputs, but this should be seen as only the start of the benefits from the SOILQUEST system.
All farm crop management decisions are influenced by soil type from cropping decisions to cultivations. Many agronomic decisions are also influenced. Soil maps will be increasingly used to improve crop management.
Cost Savings
In over 80% of the fields where the SOILQUEST system has been applied, the application of Lime, Phosphate and Potash by individual management zone requirements has reduced costs for the first 2 crops by more than the cost of mapping, zoning and testing the soil.
Crop Improvements
In over 90% of fields scanned, pH and/or Potash in at least one management zone are at a level to significantly reduce yield (>10% yield reduction).
Over 50% fields tested pH varies by 0.9 or higher
Over 75% fields tested soil K levels in individual zones will affect yield.
Precision Farming
"Soil EC is one of the simplest, least expensive soil measurements available to precision farmers today” Phosphate & Potash Institute of North America.
Soil EC is the single most important factor affecting yield being used by precision farmers.
Environmental Benefits
By creating management zones and applying fertilisers based upon soil requirement, reduces risk of leaching to groundwater. More selective use of pesticides reduces the pesticide loading.
