At Olds College of Agriculture & Technology, we are constantly looking for ways to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and sustainable agriculture. Right now, if you walk out into our research fields, you might spot some futuristic-looking equipment doing just that: EOS chambers.
These automated soil flux chambers are designed to measure greenhouse gas emissions — specifically carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide — directly from the soil.
Agricultural practices, like fertilizer application and crop management, have a direct impact on the environment. By using the EOS chambers, our research team can precisely monitor how the soil responds to different management decisions.
This isn't our first time utilizing this kind of technology. Olds College has previously used similar chambers (from LI-COR) to evaluate how different nitrogen fertilizer rates affect nitrous oxide emissions. Currently, the new EOS chambers are deployed in the field to test their performance efficiency and calibrate them for upcoming research projects.
Ultimately, the goal is to turn data into actionable insights. The information generated by this equipment allows us to provide science-based data and recommendations for farmers. We want to help producers find the right balance between reducing environmental emissions, improving fertilizer use efficiency and protecting their bottom line.
The Smart Farm is working towards providing producers with real-life applied research to help them make informed decisions about implementing technology in their own operations.