Aerial GPS technology for cranberry production

摘要

The Global Positioning System (GPS) has revolutionized the way aerial agricultural chemicals are being applied on farms. The use of this technology has enabled pilots to apply agricultural chemicals in a more uniform pattern, thus, eliminating the possibility of excessive treatment on crops and improving current Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Practices. Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., a Grower-Owned Cooperative based in Lakeville-Middleboro, MA and JBI Helicopters of Pembroke, NH, initiated an exploration of this technology and how it may benefit cranberry growers. This paper details phases of the project including data collection, test flight, preliminary conclusions and potential future projects involving GPS technology. Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc. is committed to providing its' Grower-Owners with the most recent advances in precision agriculture technology. Utilizing this technology will result in minimizing environmental risk, decreasing costs, increasing crop yield and quality.