Introduction to Yield Monitoring and Mapping
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary interest of the farmer when selling grain to a buyer?

  • To minimize the moisture content of the grain
  • To sell as much water as the buyer will accept (correct)
  • To sell as much dry matter as possible
  • To ensure maximum storage capacity

What is the standard moisture content for corn on a wet basis?

  • 18.0%
  • 15.5% (correct)
  • 12.2%
  • 10.5%

What benefits does a capacitance-type moisture sensor provide?

  • It requires manual calibration for each grain type
  • It is mainly used for testing soil moisture levels
  • It measures only the dry matter of the grain
  • It can monitor grain moisture content automatically (correct)

How does a capacitance-type moisture sensor determine moisture content?

<p>By assessing the dielectric properties of the grain (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the grain moisture content is too low for the buyer?

<p>The buyer will reject the grain (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the dielectric in a capacitance-type moisture sensor?

<p>To separate metal plates and hold an electrical charge (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to record moisture content at the time of harvest?

<p>To link yield data to an accurate moisture value (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where is the moisture sensor typically located on the combine?

<p>Near the grain flow sensor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What measurement is NOT used for yield calculations by grain yield monitors?

<p>Soil temperature (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a function of a grain combine?

<p>Clean chaff and debris from the grain (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the position of grain in the combine header affect its processing?

<p>Grain nearest the center is processed faster than grain at either end (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can negatively affect the accuracy of calculated yields?

<p>Inconsistent combine travel speed (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the flow of grain in a combine?

<p>Grain near the edges is delayed in reaching the threshing mechanism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributes to the redistribution of grain during the harvesting process?

<p>Force exerted upon an impact plate (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major limitation of modern grain yield monitors?

<p>They can produce errors based on various measurements (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using an impact plate in grain yield monitoring?

<p>To assess the force exerted to estimate yield (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of soil testing in crop production?

<p>To determine nutrient levels that limit crop growth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which nutrient is often considered the most important for crop production?

<p>Nitrogen (N) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What classification indicates a high probability of yield increase from fertilizer application?

<p>Very Low (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the ideal time to apply nitrogen for corn production?

<p>Six to ten weeks after planting (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How are primary nutrient levels in soil commonly categorized?

<p>Very low, low, moderate, high, very high (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What outcome is expected if nitrogen is applied correctly to the soil?

<p>Corn yields can double compared to untreated fields. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What describes the nutrient levels classified as high and very high?

<p>Low probability of crop yield response (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Secondary nutrients are typically added to soil in what manner compared to primary nutrients?

<p>They are less likely to be supplemented as fertilizers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of soil survey maps created by the NRCS?

<p>To identify approximate values of soil properties. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What limitation is noted about soil survey maps?

<p>They do not represent soil types accurately across different areas. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might farmers need to conduct soil testing even when using soil survey maps?

<p>To determine variations in soil properties within a field. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor must be considered alongside soil fertility to achieve high crop yields?

<p>The irrigation and drainage systems. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the traditional approach to soil analysis in farming?

<p>Averaging results from randomly gathered samples from the entire field. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of precision farming technologies over traditional methods?

<p>They allow for variable rate fertilizer application based on needs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT guaranteed to result from controlling fertility and soil physical properties?

<p>Prevention of all adverse weather impacts. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which soil property is typically assessed through soil survey maps?

<p>Soil organic matter content. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one primary benefit of using instantaneous yield monitors for farmers?

<p>They allow farmers to conduct detailed investigations into yield variations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor can be analyzed using yield data collected from yield monitors?

<p>Soil type differences (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Farmers claim that yield monitoring systems can increase the value of land at the time of sale. What contributes to this increase?

<p>The accuracy of long-term yield information. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way can yield monitors assist in on-farm research?

<p>By conducting trials related to fertilizers and hybrids. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible outcome of analyzing yield monitoring data over several years?

<p>Revolutionizing seed selection and chemical application strategies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do farmers often feel about yield variability prior to using yield monitors?

<p>They know it happens but lack precise data. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge might farmers face when using yield monitors for the first time?

<p>They may not see quick financial returns. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following could be considered a yield-limiting factor based on yield monitor data?

<p>Soil compaction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of yield monitor calibration?

<p>To measure crop yield on-the-go (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of sensor is most often used to measure grain moisture content?

<p>Capacitance-based sensor (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the advantages of using site-specific crop yield maps?

<p>They allow farmers to make informed management decisions for specific locations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which data types typically appear in a site-specific yield data file?

<p>Grain type, moisture content, and GPS location (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does a header position sensor play in yield monitoring?

<p>It controls the yield mapping process. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is measuring grain flow through combines important?

<p>It provides critical yield data for analysis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of yield monitoring systems for non-grain crops?

<p>They expand the applications of agricultural technology. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about yield monitoring is true?

<p>It provides location-specific yield information. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Grain moisture content

The percentage of water in grain, crucial for storage and handling.

Optimum moisture content

The right amount of water in grain for best storage and handling.

Capacitance-type sensor

A device used to measure grain moisture content based on dielectric properties.

Dielectric properties

Characteristics of a material that affects how it stores electrical charges.

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15.5% wet basis

Standard moisture content for corn, used for yield comparisons.

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Moisture sensor location

Inside the combine's grain conveying system, near the grain flow sensor.

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Yield data

Data collected about crop production, including weight, volume, and yield.

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Dry matter

The solid parts of plant material, excluding water.

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Yield monitoring

Using technology to track and map crop yields across a field.

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Yield variability

Variations in crop yields within a field.

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Instantaneous yield monitors

Technology that provides real-time data on crop yields.

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On-farm research

Using yield data to test different farming practices.

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Yield-limiting factors

Conditions that reduce crop yield.

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Long-term yield information

Data on crop yields collected over several years.

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Benefits of yield monitoring

Provides detailed yield information, allowing for better understanding of yield variations and can help in optimizing farming practices, leading to improvements in profitability.

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Grain yield monitor

A device that measures crop yield in real-time, helping farmers understand the performance of different areas of their fields.

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Site-specific yield

Yield data collected from individual sections of a field, allowing farmers to see differences in productivity.

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Combine header

The front part of a combine that cuts and gathers crops, starting the harvest process.

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Grain flow sensor

A device that measures how much grain is passing through the combine's cleaning system.

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Material-other-than-grain (MOG)

Anything in the combine besides the desired grain, like chaff, stems, and debris.

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Clean grain system

A series of components in the combine that separate and clean the grain from MOG.

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Combine travel speed

How fast the combine is moving across the field, affecting the calculations of yield.

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Width of cut

The width of the area that the combine header harvests, influencing the amount of grain collected.

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What do yield monitors measure?

Yield monitors measure and record crop yields in real-time as the combine harvests.

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Soil Testing

Analyzing the soil's nutrient content to determine if any are limiting crop growth.

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Primary Nutrients

Essential nutrients required in large amounts for plant growth: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K).

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Type of sensor for grain moisture?

A capacitance-type sensor is commonly used to measure grain moisture content during harvesting.

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What data is in a site-specific yield file?

A site-specific yield data file typically includes: a. Harvest date, b. GPS location, c. Yield value.

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Nitrogen (N)

A key nutrient for plant growth, particularly for leaf development and photosynthesis.

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How are yield maps created?

Yield maps are generated by combining yield data with GPS location information, allowing farmers to visualize crop performance across their fields.

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Phosphorus (P)

Essential for root development, flowering, and seed production.

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Potassium (K)

Important for overall plant health, including disease resistance and water regulation.

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What's the purpose of yield monitor calibration?

Calibration ensures accurate yield measurements, resulting in reliable yield data and maps.

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Why are yield maps important for farmers?

Yield maps provide valuable insights into field variability, helping farmers make better management decisions for future planting and fertilization.

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Secondary Nutrients

Nutrients less commonly added as fertilizers, but still vital for plant growth.

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How is grain flow measured?

Grain flow is measured by a sensor that detects the volume of grain passing through it in the combine’s threshing system.

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Very Low/Low Nutrient Levels

Indicating a high chance that adding fertilizer would increase crop yield.

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What other methods can measure combine speed?

Besides GPS, alternative methods to measure combine speed include: a. odometer, b. speed sensor on wheels, c. engine RPM.

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High/Very High Nutrient Levels

Indicating a low chance that adding fertilizer will increase crop yield.

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Soil Survey Maps

Maps created by the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) that show the types and properties of soil in a region.

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Soil Texture

The relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay in a soil sample.

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Soil Organic Matter

The decomposed plant and animal material present in soil, enhancing fertility and water retention.

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Precision Farming

A farming approach that uses technology to precisely manage inputs like fertilizer based on variations in soil conditions.

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Soil Sampling

Collecting soil samples from different areas of a field to determine the composition and properties of the soil.

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Average Soil Analysis

A historical practice of analyzing soil samples from various spots and applying fertilizer uniformly across the entire field.

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On-the-Go Fertilization

A technology-driven approach to applying fertilizer based on real-time soil analysis, allowing for variable application rates.

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Management Zone

A distinct area within a field with similar soil properties, where consistent management practices are applied.

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Study Notes

Introduction to Yield Monitoring and Mapping

  • Farmers in the US produce vast quantities of corn, wheat, and soybeans annually.
  • Crop yield (bu/ac or lb/ac) is a crucial measure for economic success in farming
  • Maximizing yield while minimizing costs is a major concern for farmers.
  • Crop yield variability across fields frequently occurs due to variations in soil conditions and climate
  • Modern technologies allow for precise yield measurement on smaller areas, unlike traditional whole-field assessments.

Methods for Measuring Crop Yield

  • Collect-and-Weigh: Farmers weigh harvested crops at collection points. Crop moisture content significantly affects the measurements.
  • Batch-Type Yield Monitors: Weigh grain contained in combine tanks, providing estimates quickly.
  • Instantaneous Yield Monitors: These systems continuously collect yield data as crops are harvested. Key factors include grain flow rate, moisture content, travel speed, and cutting width. This data is crucial for mapping specific yield patterns.

Basic Yield Monitor Components

  • Grain Moisture Sensor: Measures the moisture content of harvested grain.
  • Display/Processor Console: Displays and processes yield data, often with user input capability.
  • Grain Flow Sensor: Measures grain flow rate; combined with other data, this component enables yield calculation.
  • Ground Speed Sensor: Monitors the combine’s speed.
  • Header Position Switch: Determines combine header operation position, to control the area calculations, vital for measuring precisely.

Grain Flow Sensors

  • Impact-Type Mass Flow Sensors: Measure the force or displacement of an impact plate hit by the grain.
  • Optical-Type Volume Flow Sensors: Employ light sources and photosensors to measure grain volume flow. Conversion to mass is crucial based on bulk grain density.

Grain Moisture Sensors

  • Moisture content of grain directly impacts its weight and volume, critical in determining actual yield.
  • Sensors are important to farmers for accurate evaluations of stored grains, and for managing grain storage and handling.
  • Moisture affects yield and can lead to losses during harvest or storage.

Ground Speed Sensors

  • Accurate ground speed measurement is essential for accurate yield calculation.
  • Sensors can use magnetic sensors to measure the speed of a drive shaft.
  • Other potential errors include slippage and changing soil conditions.
  • Alternative sensors like radar and ultrasonic are being employed.
  • GPS-based systems provide another approach with accurate, real-time speed data.

Header Position Sensor

  • Some yield monitoring systems use header position sensors to control area calculation.
  • Area counting is suspended when the combine header isn't at a defined height, resuming when it's lowered.
  • This allows for consistent yield assessment even when the machine is turning or changing position.

Display Console

  • Located in the combine cab.
  • Displays operator input (e.g., field name, load number, cutting width), and collected data (moisture content, instantaneous yield, average yield, area harvested, travel speed, GPS signal reception).

Calibration

  • Correcting the sensor data is required for accurate yield data calculations.
  • Comparison of yield monitor estimates (e.g. weight, volume, etc.) to actual measurements (e.g. using known scales) is used to create calibration curves.
  • Variations in harvesting conditions (e.g., grain flow rates and moisture content) may require additional or more frequent calibration.

Yield Data Collection

  • Yields are collected continuously, in 1-5 seconds intervals.
  • Stored data on PC cards or other devices allows for post-harvest analysis.
  • Data can be transferred to computers for analysis in summary tables or maps.

Yield Mapping

  • Georeferencing associates yield data points to specific locations on a map.
  • GPS receivers are typically used to accurately determine a combine's position at each data point.
  • Differential GPS correction (DGPS) is often used for improved accuracy.

Yield Monitoring and Mapping for Non-Grain Crops

  • Similar methods (often weighing) are used for crops like potatoes, tomatoes, and sugar cane.

Issues to Consider

  • Modern yield monitor systems are accurate but errors in measuring force, cutting width, and ground speed influence accuracy.
  • Combine mechanisms and processes might introduce delays during harvest or processing.

Soil Sampling and Analysis

  • Regular soil sampling is crucial for effective fertility management and potential yield improvements.
  • Soil properties are important for crop growth.
  • Micronutrients are nutrients required in small amounts, but can have a significant impact on yield.
  • Soil pH is a key indicator of soil acidity.

Sensors for Measuring Soil Properties

  • Sensors like those measuring soil electrical conductivity, moisture content, and organic matter content are utilized in modern farming practices.

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Deere Precision Farming Guide - Brief Excerpts PDF

Description

This quiz provides an overview of yield monitoring and mapping in agriculture, focusing on important crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans. It discusses the significance of crop yield, the impact of soil conditions and climate on yield variability, and modern methodologies for precise yield measurement. Test your understanding of the key concepts and techniques involved in maximizing agricultural productivity.

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