Use of Geophysical Methods in Agriculture
Barry J. Allred, Ph.D., P.E., P.G.
Research Agricultural Engineer
USDA ARS Soil Drainage Research Unit
Hamid Farahani, Ph.D.
Water Management Engineer
USDA NRCS East National Technology Support Center
August 21, 2012
2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Eastern
Agricultural geophysics is an emerging discipline that involves non-invasive geophysical techniques for obtaining valuable soil surface and near surface information. The three geophysical methods predominantly used for agricultural purposes are resistivity, electromagnetic induction, and ground-penetrating radar. Magnetrometry, self-potential, and seismic are three additional geophysical methods, all of which have the potential for substantial future use in agriculture, but at present are being employed sparingly or not at all. This first of a two-part webinar presents an overview of geophysical methods currently used and those having future potential in agriculture and the landscape. It will be followed by an in-depth examination of the widely used apparent soil electrical conductivity (EC) mapping via soil resistivity meters and its utility in site-specific management in a follow-up webinar. NRCS field staff is expected to benefit from gaining a greater insight to agricultural geophysical techniques that offer means of quantifying soil variability for better conservation placement and productivity enhancement in the field.
Certified Crop Advisor CEUs - Soil & Water Management (1.0 hr)
On the day of the event:
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