An innovative soil nutrient mapping and testing platform developed by Persistence Data Mining, Inc. and the Ohio Soybean Council won a 2019 R&D 100 Award. The system, Soilytics, uses hyperspectral imaging technology to accurately identify organic matter, soil type, moisture, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and much more in soil.
The new system is faster and more economical that current soil testing systems. The results provide farmers with data that can help improve environmental stewardship and profitability.
“Farmers need more precise, real-time, soil nutrient mapping,” said Bill Bateson, Ohio farmer and Ohio Soybean Council chairman. “This type of technology can help us better manage input costs without loss of productivity, as well as protect water and soil quality. I’m really excited to see where this technology goes and proud that the Ohio Soybean Council and soybean checkoff is a part of it.”
