GPS Testing in Dumfries and Galloway
It’s important for farmers and landowners to map their fields. Using GPS mapping can retrieve a host of information about the soil. An in-depth analysis of a field will identify the current quality of the soil and what needs to be applied to rectify any problems, thus ensuring that the health of the soil is maintained.
It’s important that soil testing is carried out regularly. According to DEFRA, “When planning an application of organic manure or manufactured fertilizer to cultivated land, the results of soil sampling and analysis should be taken into account…..the results should be no older than 5 years.” A third or a quarter of a farm should be tested and mapped in a 3 to 4 year rotation to ensure all farmed fields are up to date.
Eco Prospects provide GPS testing in Dumfries and Galloway. Using a quad bike fitted with our GPS software we can map your fields. We will systematically work through each field, dividing them into segments and creating sample points within a grid system. This enables us to easily and effectively identify and log where we have tested. You can see an example of an area that we carried out GPS testing from the photographs included.
The soil samples, once collected, will be sent off to an independent laboratory where they will be analysed for trace elements such as Phosphate, Potash, Magnesium and PH. Using the findings from our GPS testing in Dumfries and Galloway, Eco Prospects will put together a nutrient management plan.
The nutrient management plan will outline what treatments are needed in order to develop the type of agricultural environment that will grow healthy crops within a balanced soil. The plan is tailored not just to a field but specific areas of the field where the amount of fertiliser or agricultural lime needed might vary. The results will indicate not just the quantity needed but exactly where it needs to be applied.
Eco Prospects offer a comprehensive soil testing service including PH and GPS testing in Dumfries and Galloway. We will adapt our services depending on whether it’s arable or dairy farming. If you would like to find out more about GPS testing, give us a ring on 0779 9576590.
