gen-define-precision-agriculture-and-give-one-short-worked-examp-4b5e

Define precision agriculture and give one short worked example.

# Precision Agriculture **Precision agriculture** is a farm management approach that uses technology to observe, measure, and respond to variability within agricultural fields. It involves collecting detailed data about soil conditions, crop health, weather, and other factors to optimize inputs (like water, fertilizers, pesticides) and maximize yields while minimizing waste and environmental impact. ## Worked Example: Variable Rate Fertilizer Application **Scenario:** A farmer has a 100-acre corn field with varying soil nitrogen levels. **Traditional approach:** Apply 150 lbs of nitrogen per acre uniformly across all 100 acres. - Total nitrogen used: 15,000 lbs **Precision agriculture approach:** - Use soil sensors and GPS mapping to identify three zones: - Zone A (40 acres): Low nitrogen - needs 180 lbs/acre - Zone B (35 acres): Medium nitrogen - needs 150 lbs/acre - Zone C (25 acres): High nitrogen - needs 100 lbs/acre - Total nitrogen used: (40×180) + (35×150) + (25×100) = 7,200 + 5,250 + 2,500 = **14,950 lbs** **Result:** - Saves 50 lbs of fertilizer (cost savings) - Prevents over-fertilization in Zone C (environmental benefit) - Provides adequate nitrogen in Zone A (yield optimization)