Development of measurement technologies to increase productivity, nitrogen use efficiency and nitrogen management decisions for grass crops
Lead Participant:
YARA UK LIMITED
Abstract
Grass yields currently achieved on-farm are less than half of the biological potential for the UK environment. One of the main reasons for low grass yields is the sub-optimal use of nitrogen (N) fertiliser and failure to account for spatial variation in N fertiliser demand within fields. Current methods of estimating fertiliser N requirements are complex and there is no method for variably applying N according to crop needs. This project aims to develop technology used on arable crops (Yara N-Sensor) to measure the N fertiliser requirement of grass crops. This will provide farmers with a simple, automated method of controlling more precisely the amount of N fertiliser applied to their grass crops. The benefits include greater grass yields, greater farm profitability and environmental benefits such as fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a lower risk of nitrate leaching. The consortium consists of Yara (lead & N manufacturer), ADAS (management & research), Precision Decisions (technical), Countrywide Farmers (knowledge transfer), and DLF Trifolium (grass breeders). This complimentary consortium ensures world class technical expertise alongside an effective route for exploitation.
Lead Participant | Project Cost | Grant Offer |
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YARA UK LIMITED | £242,706 | £ 121,000 |
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Participant |
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PRECISION DECISIONS LIMITED | £68,831 | £ 41,250 |
ADAS UK LIMITED | £156,109 | £ 78,054 |
FORFARMERS UK LTD | £58,800 | £ 29,400 |
DLF SEEDS LTD. | £16,616 | £ 8,300 |
BOCM PAULS LIMITED | ||
RSK ADAS LIMITED |
People |
ORCID iD |
Fiona Clarke (Project Manager) |