Protein-Responsive Optimisation Strategy for Premium-Eligible Returns (PROSPER)

PROSPER will help English wheat farmers make smarter, more profitable nitrogen decisions using advanced satellite data and artificial intelligence. The project will trial Messium's protein forecasting tool, which uses hyperspectral imagery and machine learning to predict grain protein levels in wheat and recommend whether late nitrogen applications are likely to pay off.

3 commercial farms (based in Yorkshire/Cambridgeshire) will test the system over 2 growing seasons (2026 and 2027). The trials will measure yield, protein, nitrogen-use efficiency and profitability, ensuring robust evidence for future adoption.

By identifying where additional nitrogen is needed and where it can be avoided, PROSPER aims to improve productivity and farm income while reducing unnecessary fertiliser use, emissions and nitrate leaching. The project will be led by farmers working directly with agronomists, satellite specialists and innovation experts to ensure practical, farmer-focused results.

Results will be shared widely through on-farm events, digital channels and agricultural media to support national adoption. PROSPER will provide the foundation for a more efficient, climate-friendly and profitable approach to nitrogen management in UK arable farming.