In partnership with TELUS Agriculture, researchers are evaluating variable rate technology (VRT) for fertilizer applications on the Smart Farm with a focus on nitrogen. Applying fertilizer, which contains nitrogen, only in areas and with amounts where it will be utilized by the crop reduces the amount of residual nitrogen in the soil at the end of the cropping season — which could reduce nitrous oxide emissions (N2O). Researchers are assessing how VRT impacts the utilization of nitrogen in a field while maintaining (or improving) yield, as well as having a positive benefit on the environment. Producers could potentially save money, improve yields and reduce their environmental footprint by using VRT.
Partners/Funders: TELUS Agriculture