An overview of site-specific management research activities in Nebraska

Scientists at the University of Nebraska have initiated a number of studies that relate to the rapidly developing discipline of site-specific agricultural management. Integration of technologies that provide location in the field along with automated control of agricultural inputs may become common in the near future. Much research effort in Nebraska is devoted to learning the potential environmental and economic benefits of variable rate application of fertilizer and pesticides. This chapter presents a list of major research projects and associated activities that relate to site-specific agricultural management in Nebraska. Five different nitrogen (N) management strategies utilizing variable rate N application equipment are evaluated and compared to currently recommended BMP’s utilizing uniform N applications. Large replicated plots are established near Shelton, NE. on a field of continuous sprinkler-irrigated corn. A multi-yr weed species distribution survey is being conducted in farmers’ fields just prior to post-emergence herbicide application. Weed distributions are mapped and subjected to geostatistical analysis.