The Department of Defense spent about $12 billion to surround our planet with 24 satellites. Soaring 11,000 above the globe, these satellites, referred to as the Global Positioning System (GPS), were originally intended for weapons guidance and troop deployment. But like the Internet, which also had military origins, these satellites are now being put to more humane uses.Basically, here's how it works. Each satellite transmits a signal which contains its location. On earth, receivers interpret these signals and, using simple triangulation (simple for a computer anyway), determine the precise location of the receiver.
This is probably old news to you. After all, airplanes use GPS all the time, and new models of cars are coming off the assembly lines with GPS built right into the dashboard. In a few years, you'll never have to ask for directions again.
But what does GPS have to do with modern farming?
GPS gives you real-time display of your field and your vehicle, accurate to within a few inches. By monitoring this data, you can identify crop patterns, eliminate skips and reduce overlaps. You can even generate maps which document exactly how many acres were covered, and what areas were missed.
To really reap the benefits of this technology, GPS needs to be integrated into an overall precision farming strategy. For example, combine your GPS data with the record keeping capabilities of mapping software. This will enable you to target maximum economic yield, enhancing production in those areas of the field which can produce more crops.
Horvick Manufacturing is a leader in agriculture technology and support the industry's highest quality precision farming products, including:
Global Positioning Systems
The foundation for hi-tech farming.Harvest Monitors
Accurately measure every aspect of your field.Sprayer Control Systems
Complete control over application of chemicals and fertilizer.Chemical Injection Systems
The ultimate in precise chemical application.The bottom line is cost-effectiveness. Precision farming, with GPS integration, will give you exact data on every aspect of your crops. It's your own farmer's almanac, generated specifically for your fields, based on your conditions, and put into your hands.
