Application of technological advances for grazing management have become prevalent in recent years. Developments in sensor technology and GIS systems have allowed for a more accessible set of options for researchers and producers as a function of both cost and availability. The combination of mobile sensing systems and GIS allow for a scenario whereas rapid data collection is possible and spatial projection/ presentation of these data can be used as visualization tools for decision making. Additionally, distinct parameter estimations can also be derived from the sensing system data and used as inputs for calculation of stocking rates or adjustments. Currently there are efforts being pursued at the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation to employ mobile sensing systems on a number of forage species. Four years of sensor research have been completed on bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.], tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Both crude protein and live standing biomass (estimated on a dry weight basis), have been the main emphasis of the work done. Bermudagrass biomass and crude protein, and wheat biomass and crude protein can be predicted using the mobile sensing system developed by the Noble Foundation to 78%, 85%, 74%, and 62% accuracy respectively. Alfalfa biomass can be predicted to 64% accuracy and tall fescue crude protein to 83% accuracy. Use of these types of systems for evaluation of grazing systems will allow for rapid accurate capture of information and can enable heightened efficiency in improved pasture and rangeland management scenarios
Oral presentation and poster titles, abstracts, and authors from the Society for Range Management (SRM) Annual Meetings and Tradeshows, from 2013 forward.