Boom time for MagnaScan use
Boom time for MagnaScan use
UPTAKE of the novel MagnaScan service for assessing soil characters is booming, according to developer ASE Solutech of Shuttleworth, Beds and main marketing agent Dalgety.
Based on measuring the electrical conductivity of soils using a small gadget towed behind an ATV the service maps soil type, compaction and moisture holding capacity quickly and relatively cheaply.
Already 8000ha (20,000 acres) have been mapped this season, reports Tim Bonfield of Dalgety. Most of the work carried out is to guide variable seed rates, selection of ground for potato production, identifying the need for treating compaction and targeting P and K testing.
Farmers in Eastern Europe are also keen. "Their big farms are used to grid sampling and are very interested in MagnaScan. We have several big orders out there for this spring."
Cost is typically £19/ha (£8/acre), including calibrated map and agronomic interpretation. *