Nitrogen Efficiency in Organic Farming Using a GPS Precision Farming Technique

Koopmans C.J. and M. Zanen

Abstract
A GPS-controlled precision farming technique using the same tracks in the field year after year offers the opportunity to improve soil structure. Organic dairy manure sludge was applied at 40 and 14 ton/ha corresponding to farmers’ practice and phosphate equilibrium respectively.

Effects on soil structure, nutrient use efficiency and spinach yield were evaluated. Manure inputs could be reduced by 65% with comparable yields in traditional tillage and GPS-controlled precision tillage on permanent tracks.

Louis Bolk Instituut, Hoofdstraat 24, 3972 LA, Driebergen, The Netherlands, 0031-343-523860,E-Mail: c.koopmans@louisbolk.nl Website: www.louisbolk.nl

Source
Köpke et al (Eds) (2005): Researching Sustainable Systems. Proceedings of the First Scientific Conference of the International Society of Organic Agriculture Research (ISOFAR). ISOFAR / IOL / FiBL, Bonn and Frick; ISBN 3-906081-76-1

Paper copy and PDF version may be ordered from FiBL at a cost of 28 Euros / 14 Euros plus mailing costs (see FiBL shop at https://www.fibl.org/shop/index.php); FiBL order number 1394. A PDF version is available free of charge for ISOFAR members via the member area of www.isofar.org