Definition: Systems integrating technology to support agricultural decision-

making.

GPS 1. Introduction
GIS Key Components:
Definition: Electronic mapping system.
Remote Sensing

Better data maintenance and updating.

6. GIS in Agricultural DSS
Purpose: Solves complex spatial problems in agriculture.
Benefits: Easier data search, analysis, and representation.
Crop modelling capabilities
2. Spatial Decision Support System (SDSS) Enhanced decision-making.
Database management system
Components:
Definition: Information about farm field activities and conditions.
Expert knowledge integration

Examples: Soil analysis, nutrient information, hybrid selection, plant populations,

Map-based outputs 7. Agronomic Data yield data.

Remote Sensing: Captures reflected light to create digital images for subfield Uses: Creating management zones and prescription maps.
analysis.

Definition: Measures wavelengths of light for crop health assessment.

Displays digital maps with underlying data.
FPA405
Function: Uses reflectance values to develop vegetation indices (e.g., NDVI) for
Elements: People, Data, Hardware, Software, Methods. Geographic Information System (GIS): CHAPTER 6 8. Spectroradiometer for Crop Health plant health.

Agricultural
Functions: Visualization, Analysis, Manipulation, Data storage, Data capture. NDVI: Ratio of near-infrared to red light, indicating vegetation health
3. Technologies in Agricultural Decision Support Support Systems
Information Technology: Systems for storing, retrieving, and sending Systems
Definition: Collecting GPS data on crop yield during harvest.
information.

Components: Grain flow sensor, grain moisture sensor, GPS, yield monitor
Meteorology: Predicts weather and climate using forecasting models.
9. Yield Maps display, header position sensor, travel speed sensor.

Agronomy: Science of soil management and crop production.

Uses: Define management zones, create profit maps, calculate nutrient
replacement needs.
Anthropology: Studies human biological and physiological characteristics.

Definition: Varies application rate of materials based on location or qualities.

Oversee farm operations.
Role of Agricultural Managers:
4. Managers and Decision Making Map-Based VRA: Uses GPS and prescription maps for input concentration.
Planning, supervising, and participating in planting, fertilization, and harvesting.
Types:
10. Action Maps Using Variable Rate Application Sensor-Based VRA: Uses sensors to measure soil or crop characteristics and
adjust inputs.
Definition: Computer-based program aiding decision-making. (VRA)
Savings on fertilizers and chemicals
Purpose: Improves soil and crop management, helps make informed decisions.

Benefits:
Resource allocation 5. Decision Support System (DSS) Potential yield increase

Environmental protection
Proper budgeting
Requirements:

Strategic focus

Multidisciplinary approach