Empowering farmers with remote sensing knowledge: A success story from the US Upper Midwest |
| |
| Authors: | S K Seelan D Baumgartner G M Casady V Nangia G A Seielstad |
| |
| Institution: | 1. Department of Space Studies , John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, University of North Dakota , Grand Forks, ND, 58202, USA seelan@aero.und.edu;3. L-3 Communications/Titan Group , Unit 28130, APO, AE, 09114, Germany;4. Office of Arid Lands Studies, University of Arizona , Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA;5. Upper Midwest Aerospace Consortium, University of North Dakota , Grand Forks, ND, 58202, USA |
| |
| Abstract: | Satellite imagery has proven potential in farm level applications, especially in the US Upper Midwest where the farm sizes are large enough to be studied using high and medium resolutions. In order for farmers to use this technology to improve their productivity and income, it is imperative that they be sufficiently exposed to the technology so that they are able to take full advantage of it. Training of farmers and ranchers in satellite imagery use started at the University of North Dakota in 2000 and has been refined over time. The basic ‘hands on’ training involves downloading imagery from the Upper Midwest Aerospace Consortium (UMAC) website, downloading and use of free visualization software programs available on the web and an introduction to the various application possibilities. Advanced training, which involves more complex extraction of useful information from digital images, is also available to those who complete the basic training. Over 500 farmers, ranchers, crop consultants and other end users have been trained through this programme and the results are beginning to show through the success stories of cost savings and environmental benefits that have emerged. |
| |
| Keywords: | Remote sensing Satellite imagery Farmer training Geospatial extension ‘Hands on’ training On-line tutorials Successful applications US Upper Midwest |
|
|
